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Any operation has certain risks and possible problems that can occur. The new minimally invasive method of total hip replacement (THR) is meant to reduce those problems. By making a smaller incision there may be less blood loss and less damage to the muscles.
In theory the patient gets better faster. In practice this isn't always the outcome. Many studies have come out now showing no major advantage of the minimally invasive THR. A recent report of three cases in North Carolina showed how extreme problems can occur.
This and other studies repeat the same messages:
Patient safety is first in importance.
New methods must be studied carefully before being used by everyone.
Surgeons should receive training in new operations before using them.
Surgeons who do the most number of the same kind of operations have the best results.
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