Minimally Invasive Approaches to Orthopaedic Procedures

Minimally invasive orthopaedic procedures use small incisions and specialised instruments to treat musculoskeletal conditions with less disruption to surrounding tissue than traditional open surgery. For suitable patients they can mean less post-operative pain, less scarring and a shorter recovery.

What minimally invasive means

Rather than a larger incision to access the affected area, these procedures use instruments such as small cameras (arthroscopes) and narrow surgical tools passed through small incisions. That generally means less trauma to healthy tissue.

Common minimally invasive procedures

Arthroscopic surgery

Arthroscopy involves inserting a small camera into the joint through a small incision, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint and repair damaged tissue such as cartilage or ligament.

• Foot and ankle arthroscopy, used for conditions including arthritis, tendon injury and impingement.
• Knee arthroscopy, used for meniscal tears, ligament injury and other joint damage.
• Hip arthroscopy, used for labral tears and cartilage damage.

Smaller-incision approaches to hip and knee replacement

For advanced arthritis or joint degeneration, joint replacement can be performed through smaller incisions with a more tissue-sparing approach, which may support earlier mobilisation and less post-operative pain. Suitability depends on the individual and the joint.

Non-surgical and injection-based options

Surgery is not always required. Non-surgical treatments can provide meaningful relief, either as an alternative to surgery or alongside it.

• Shockwave therapy, which uses focused sound waves and is used for conditions such as tendinopathy and plantar heel pain.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, in which a preparation from the patient's own blood is injected into the affected area. Used in selected tendon and joint conditions.
• Therapeutic ultrasound, used in some soft-tissue conditions.

Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery

Conditions such as bunions, lesser toe deformity and chronic ligament injury can significantly affect daily life.

• Bunion surgery can be performed through small incisions to realign the bones and soft tissue of the forefoot.
• Achilles tendon repair can in selected cases be performed through smaller incisions.

Potential benefits

• Shorter recovery. Smaller incisions and less tissue disruption can support earlier return to activity.
• Lower risk of some complications. Typically less blood loss and a smaller wound.
• Less scarring.
• Less post-operative pain for many patients.

Outcomes vary between individuals, and no surgical approach is risk-free. Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks and benefits in your case.

When minimally invasive surgery is considered

These procedures are not suitable for every patient or every condition. They are typically considered when:

• Conservative treatment such as physiotherapy, injections or medication has not provided adequate relief
• The condition has not progressed to a point where a more extensive approach is required
• The anatomy and the specific problem are suited to the technique

Finding out whether it is right for you

Each person's condition is different. A specialist assessment will consider whether a minimally invasive approach is appropriate for you, and explain the benefits and risks of each option so you can make an informed decision.

You can read about foot and ankle care, hip and knee care, injection and orthobiologic therapies, or book an appointment.