The Role of Computer Assisted Surgery in Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement Surgery

A review of the current orthopedic literature reveals some evidence that a limited incision approach may be associated with a higher complication rate, particularly in the learning phase of the minimally invasive joint replacement surgery (MIS) techniques. Some of these complications may be limited by computer assistance, but there may still be errors associated with computer assisted surgery (CAS). Surgeons must have sufficient experience in MIS techniques before realizing any potential benefits from CAS. Larger studies will be needed to establish definitively whether the combination of MIS and CAS will lead to improved long-term results.