Frequently Asked Questions

MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement

What is the difference between Zimmer MIS 2-Incision hip replacement and traditional surgery? 

The Zimmer MIS 2-Incision procedure is one of the least invasive surgical options available for hip replacement today.  When performing the procedure, surgeons make two incisions as small as 1½ to 2 inches each, and generally separate the muscles and tendons to access the hip joint.  Traditional surgery typically involves a 10- to 12-inch incision and the cutting of those key tissues. 

How does the surgeon put in a new hip through such small incisions?

Zimmer makes specialized instruments and provides training in minimally invasive surgical techniques that allow orthopaedic surgeons to access the hip joint and perform the surgery through a much smaller incision than is used for traditional hip replacement.

How would I benefit from the MIS 2-Incision procedure?  

It’s mainly the healing of cut muscles and tendons that can make recovery from traditional hip replacement surgery so long and painful.  Because those tissues generally aren’t cut in the MIS 2-Incision procedure, potential patient benefits include:

  • Less tissue trauma
  • Faster and less painful rehabilitation
  • Smaller scars
  • Shorter hospital stay – 1 to 2 days; some patients are able to go home in less than 24 hours
  • Reduced blood loss and less of a need for pre-surgery donation
  • Quicker return to work and daily activities

What are the risks of the procedure?

Long-term study is ongoing.  However, in more than 500 patients who have received the procedure, complications have been no different than those associated with traditional hip replacement.

Is there a difference between the replacement hip used in the MIS 2-Incision procedure and the one used in traditional hip replacement surgery?

No. The replacement hip – comprised of a stem, ball and socket – is the same high quality, clinically proven prosthesis that is used in traditional surgery.

Will a hip replaced with the 2-Incision procedure last as long as one replaced through traditional surgery?

There is no reason to believe that the longevity of a hip replaced with the 2-Incision technique will be different than one replaced with traditional surgery.  Of course, as with any surgery, individual results will vary.  How long a hip replacement lasts – no matter how the procedure is performed – varies depending on a number of factors, including bone quality, weight, activity level, and other health factors.

Can anyone who would benefit from hip replacement have the MIS 2-Incision procedure?

Although most people who are eligible for traditional hip replacement surgery are candidates for the Zimmer MIS 2-Incision hip procedure, there are exceptions.  You may not be a candidate if you are extremely overweight, very muscular, have recently had a blood clot or an unstable medication that places you at higher risk for complications, or if you have already had hip replacement surgery on the same hip.  However, you may still be a candidate for traditional surgery or the Zimmer MIS Mini-Incision hip replacement procedure, another less-invasive technique with similar patient benefits. 

Can all orthopaedic surgeons perform this procedure?

No.  Surgeons must receive training through The Zimmer Institute to perform the MIS 2-Incision hip replacement procedure.  For more information, Find A Doctor or call toll-free, 1-866-FIND-MIS.   

Is the procedure covered by insurance?

Yes. Although insurance plans vary, the MIS 2-Incision procedure is usually covered by insurance in the same manner that traditional hip replacement surgery is covered. Check with your insurance plan in advance to be sure.

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