Comparison of the minimally invasive and standard medial parapatellar approaches for primary total knee arthroplasty

Purpose The minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach has been popularised as an alternative to the standard medial parapatellar approach (MPP) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Advocates of this technique suggest earlier functional recovery due to less injury to the surrounding tissues. Potential disadvantages however may include reduced overall exposure, component malalignment and damage to neurovascular structures.