Mini-incision: occasionally desirable, rarely necessary in opposition.

Using a mini mid vastus limited incision for primary total knee arthroplasty, the authors noted the ability to decrease postoperative pain while speeding up the rate of recovery of motion and of return of function. By specific flexion and extension of the knee, the surgical window could be mobilized to visualize the articular surfaces at various stages during the surgery. Radiographic evaluation revealed that component position and limb alignment were excellent despite the use of the more limited incision.