Patient perceptions regarding minimally invasive total knee replacement

Interest in minimally invasive total knee replacement has increased in recent years. This has occurred despite a lack of long-term data regarding complications and outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore patients' opinions relating to this relatively new technique. A questionnaire-based study was performed using patients attending clinics of consultant orthopaedic surgeons with an interest in knee arthroplasty. Low complication rates and implant survival were the items of highest importance to patients followed by a shorter recovery period. The duration of hospital stay and length of scar were of less importance to patients. Forty percent of patients would wish to go ahead with the procedure despite the lack of long-term outcome data. Only a small proportion of patients appear to be willing to undergo the procedure despite a lack of long-term data. Before taking up newer treatment methods patients must be convinced of the potential benefits and should be made aware that no long-term outcomes are available, at present.