ABSTRACT
I. INTRODUCTION The musculoskeletal system is finely balanced to serve its many roles, including locomotion and other movements, support, and protection of internal organs. Trauma and disease impair these; in some cases surgery may restore function. It would seem axiomatic that any orthopedic procedure should seek to minimize damage to normal structures and tissues without compromising the correction of pathology. This is the primary principle of orthopedic minimally invasive surgery. By preserving anatomy, morbidity is reduced. There is potentially less pain, less time lost from work and social activities, and less need for acute care and rehabilitative services. Hence, there could be less cost to individuals and society in some cases; the savings may be consumed by the cost of new technologies. Another attraction of minimally invasive surgery is cosmetic. The scars are smaller, and preservation of normal anatomy will minimize soft tissue atrophy. Patients are attracted to these procedures and often will choose physicians based on ability to provide these services.
