Frequently Asked Questions

MIS Quad-Sparing Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA)

What is total knee replacement or TKA?

Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty or TKA, essentially involves resurfacing and replacing the damaged portions of the knee:

the compartments, or condyles, at the end of the thigh bone;
the top of the shin bone; and
the underside of the knee cap.

What is the difference between Zimmer MIS Quad-Sparing TKA and traditional knee replacement surgery?

Zimmer MIS Quad-Sparing TKA uses the same clinically proven implants as traditional surgery, but the technique to place the implants is less invasive. In traditional surgery, the surgeon makes a 20- to 30-cm incision and cuts through or manipulates the quadriceps (quad) tendon and muscles, which control the bending of the knee. With MIS Quad-Sparing TKA, the surgeon makes a 75- to 126-mm incision and uses adapted surgical techniques and special instruments to avoid cutting through those key tissues.

How does the surgeon put in a knee through a small incision?

Zimmer, an orthopaedics industry leader, makes specialized instruments and provides training in minimally invasive surgical techniques that allow orthopaedic surgeons to access the ailing knee joint and place the same, clinically proven knee implants through a much smaller incision than is used for traditional knee replacement surgery.

What are the goals of MIS Quad-Sparing TKA?

The goals of MIS Quad-Sparing TKA compared to traditional knee replacement include:

Smaller, less conspicuous incision – 75 to 125-mm vs. 20 to 30 cm
Less tissue trauma – avoiding the quadriceps tendon and muscles rather than cutting through or manipulating them
Shorter total rehabilitation
Less blood loss
Less pain
Shorter hospital stay

What are the risks of the procedure?

With any type of surgery there are potential complications. Generally, for any type of joint replacement surgery – traditional or minimally invasive – these include infection, blood clots, pneumonia, prosthesis loosening, nerve damage and reaction to the anesthesia. Your surgeon can answer your specific questions about these risks and others that may exist for your situation.

Is there a difference between the replacement knee used in MIS Quad-Sparing TKA and the one used in traditional knee replacement?

No. The same clinically proven implants are used for both MIS Quad-Sparing TKA and traditional knee replacement.

How long has MIS Quad-Sparing TKA been performed and how many people have had the procedure?

The first MIS Quad-Sparing TKA procedure was performed in February 2002. As of October 2004, more than 2,000 patients had knees that were replaced with the procedure.

How can I determine if I am a candidate for the MIS Quad-Sparing procedure?

Zimmer MIS Quad-Sparing TKA is an option for many but not all patients who are candidates for traditional knee replacement. The best way to find out if you are eligible is to meet with an orthopaedic surgeon who offers the procedure. Several factors will be considered, including your weight, medical history and the structural condition of the joint.

Can all orthopaedic surgeons perform this procedure?

No. Surgeons must receive training through The Zimmer Institute to perform the MIS Quad-Sparing TKA procedure. For more information go to Facilities and Surgeon Locator.

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