[Minimally invasive surgery for knee total arthroplasty - evidence-based advantages?]

The impact of minimally invasive surgical techniques for implantation of a total knee arthroplasty is evaluated according to evidence-based medicine criteria. The patient-relevant clinical question can be formulated as: Is the rehabilitation of osteoarthritis patients with minimally invasive implantation of total knee arthroplasty faster compared to those with the conventional approach. The available literature is sorted and critically appraised with regard to methodological quality and risk of bias. Following the results of the meta-analyses the clinical question can be positively answered. Following the aspect of a structured evolution for surgical techniques, the meaning of a minimally invasive technique for total knee arthroplasty cannot be answered finally. Under the impression of more frequent surgical complications, the rating of the procedure is conservative. A general advantage is not apparent. Further studies investigating surgical learning curves, proper patient selection and the selection of the patient for such techniques are required, before the final judgement on the use of this technique can be formed.