Simultaneous bilateral TKAs subject patients to more arduous and painful functional recovery and increased risk of hemodynamic
complications than staged bilateral TKAs. Minimally invasive TKA (MIS-TKA) reportedly results in more rapid return of function
by limiting the amount of soft tissue disruption. We asked whether bilateral MIS-TKA had advantages over conventional TKA
with respect to faster functional recovery. We prospectively randomized 30 patients into an MIS group (mini-medial parapatellar
approach, 15 patients) and a conventional group (conventional medial parapatellar approach, 15 patients). We recorded range
of motion and the time required to regain the ability to walk without assistance. Functional recovery in the MIS group was
faster in rehabilitation milestones of walking without assistance and gain in range of motion. Minimally invasive TKA may
benefit patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral procedures with faster functional recovery.
Level of Evidence: Level II, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Each author certifies that he or she has no commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest,
patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article.