New Delhi [India], February 12:Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) is a surgical technique that uses special tools, small incisions and a camera to carry out procedures with less trauma than conventional surgery. In recent years, there has been significant progress in minimally invasive hip replacement procedures, empowering patients with faster recovery, reduced post operative pain, and improved functional outcomes. Recently. Dr. Ashwani Maichand, one of the leading orthopaedic surgeons of India shared his journey of devising the MIS technique, its surgical efficacy and the positive impact on patient outcomes.
In his 30 years of orthopaedic practice, Dr. Maichand observed that many patients who were candidates for hip replacement felt discouraged from opting for conventional procedures due to the lifestyle restrictions they imposed. “With conventional hip replacement surgery, there are several dos and don’ts, and patients are advised against sitting on the floor or squatting because of the risk of hip dislocation,” explains Dr. Maichand.
Recognising these limitations, Dr. Maichand developed a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) technique for hip replacement that allows patients to squat and sit on the floor comfortably. “All our patients are able to sit on the floor and squat on the floor very comfortably after MIS surgery. In the cultural context, this offers many such as Asian patients the freedom to live in ways familiar to them, whether praying, squatting, sitting cross-legged, or using Indian-style toilets.
“This approach has led to a complete shift in patient mindset,” says Dr. Maichand. “A procedure that patients once dreaded is now something they look forward to, often as a moment of relief and even celebration.”
As Dr. Maichand explains, MIS hip replacement uses techniques that are muscle-sparing with smaller incisions, allowing surgeons to reach the hip joint while preserving surrounding soft tissue. “The objective is to minimise surgical trauma without compromising accuracy. Precision plays a critical role in ensuring implant stability, alignment, and long-term joint function,” he said.
Advancements in pre-operative planning and imaging have also augmented the success of minimally invasive hip replacement. Comprehensive evaluation and reports help orthopaedic surgeons to customise the procedure for each patient’s anatomy, improving implant positioning and joint balance. The personalised approach helps reduce pain, lower complication rates, and leads to earlier mobilisation after surgery.
Dr. Maichand noted that many patients undergoing MIS hip replacement are now able to stand and begin assisted walking within a short period after surgery, supported by structured rehabilitation protocols. Shorter hospital stays and faster return to daily activities have also become increasingly common, improving overall patient satisfaction.
“Minimally invasive techniques demand a high level of surgical expertise and careful patient selection,” Dr. Maichand explained. “While not every patient is a candidate, those who are appropriately evaluated tend to benefit from smoother recovery and more predictable outcomes.”
With fellowship training in joint replacement from the USA and Germany, and his role as a Visiting Surgeon at HELIOSENDO Klinik, Hamburg, Dr. Maichand brings the international gold standard to orthopaedic care in India.His focus remains on combining advanced surgical techniques with patient-centric care to enhance mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
As minimally invasive hip replacement continues to evolve, Dr. Maichandemphasised the importance of informed decision-making and comprehensive post-operative care. “Surgical precision must be matched with patient education and rehabilitation to achieve the best possible outcomes,” he added.
