A Minimally Invasive Alternative to Knee Replacement

Get More From Life With MISHA

If knee arthritis is limiting your ability to stay active, but you are not ready for a total knee replacement, the MISHA® Knee System may be an option. The MISHA Knee System is an implantable shock absorber designed to reduce pressure on the inner (medial) side of the knee, helping relieve pain while preserving your natural joint.

Unlike traditional knee replacement surgery, the MISHA implant is placed alongside the knee joint rather than inside the joint itself. This allows patients to maintain their natural knee anatomy while reducing the forces that contribute to pain and arthritis progression.

What Is the MISHA Knee System?

The MISHA Knee System acts like a mechanical shock absorber for the knee. During walking and standing, the device helps absorb excess load placed on the medial compartment of the knee — the area most commonly affected by osteoarthritis.

The implant is positioned under the skin but outside the knee joint capsule, meaning:

• Your natural knee structures are preserved

• No cartilage or bone is removed

• The procedure is less invasive than knee replacement

• Future treatment options, including knee replacement, remain available if needed

Who May Be a Candidate?

The MISHA Knee System may be appropriate for patients who:

• Have pain primarily on the inner side of the knee

• Have mild-to-moderate medial compartment osteoarthritis

• Continue to experience pain despite conservative treatment

• Have tried options such as physical therapy, injections, medications, bracing, or prior arthroscopic procedures

• Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery

• Wish to remain active and preserve their natural knee joint

Patients with advanced arthritis throughout the entire knee, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, infection, or poor bone quality may not be ideal candidates. A detailed evaluation and imaging studies are necessary to determine eligibility.

Benefits of the MISHA Knee System

Potential advantages of the MISHA Knee System include:

• Minimally invasive outpatient procedure

• Preservation of the natural knee joint

• Faster recovery compared to traditional joint replacement

• Reduced pain during walking and daily activities

• No permanent removal of bone or cartilage

• Ability to maintain an active lifestyle

• Option to pursue knee replacement later if necessary

Clinical studies have shown many patients experience substantial pain relief and improved function following implantation. In one study, patients reported pain reduction as early as three months after surgery.

The Procedure

MISHA Knee System implantation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing many patients to return home the same day. The device is implanted through a small incision along the inner side of the knee using familiar orthopedic surgical techniques.

Because the procedure does not involve replacing the knee joint, recovery is often faster than traditional knee replacement surgery. Many patients are able to resume full weight-bearing within weeks under the guidance of their surgeon and physical therapy team.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Following surgery, patients may experience temporary swelling, soreness, or stiffness around the knee. A customized rehabilitation program helps restore motion, strength, and function.

Recovery timelines vary based on activity level, overall knee condition, and associated procedures, but many patients are able to gradually return to routine daily activities and low-impact exercise relatively quickly.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with the MISHA Knee System, including:

• Persistent pain or stiffness

• Swelling or discomfort around the implant

• Infection

• Nerve irritation or numbness

• Progression of arthritis

• Implant removal or revision surgery

While many patients experience meaningful improvement, outcomes can vary. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss whether the MISHA Knee System is appropriate for your individual condition and goals.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic knee pain is interfering with your lifestyle and conservative treatments have not provided lasting relief, the MISHA Knee System may offer a joint-preserving alternative to knee replacement surgery. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether you may be a candidate for this innovative treatment option.