Internet promotion of MIS and CAOS in TKA by Knee Society members

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery (CAOS) options for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have become increasingly popular. However, few controlled studies document their efficacy and safety. We examined the Internet for Knee Society members' websites to evaluate the level of promotion for these procedures in terms of direct (surgeon endorsed) and indirect (surgeon associated) information. On 92 websites, 22.7% made indirect reference to MIS TKA, while only 10.9% made a direct reference. Of the sites referencing MIS TKA, faster recovery was reported on 90% of indirect sites and 50% of direct sites. Specific risks were discussed on only 35% of indirect sites, and on only 20% of direct sites. CAOS TKA was discussed on 6.5% of indirect sites and on 5.4% of direct sites. Although MIS and CAOS TKA are frequently discussed on the Internet, only a small percentage of KS members directly promote these techniques (10.9% and 5.4%, respectively). Information was often indirectly associated with KS surgeons through institutional websites or hospital affiliations. Information indirectly associated with a surgeon may be mistaken as endorsing the procedure by a prospective patient.