Today, orthopedic surgery often can be minimally invasive. A hip replacement can be made with an incision of only a few inches instead of the traditional eight to 12 inches.

In minimally invasive procedures, surgeons use special instruments and a specialized approach that result in less scarring, faster recovery, less pain and blood loss, and fewer complications.

Not everyone is a candidate for minimally invasive surgery. Your surgeon will consider your overall health, size and orthopedic condition and talk to you about your options.