Dr. Nemec Special Hospital in Matulji applies a minimally invasive method of implanting the AKTIS endoprosthesis, and Dr. Danijel Ivanac reveals why recovery is reduced to just two to three days.
When hip pain becomes unbearable and medication and physical therapy no longer help, implanting an endoprosthesis is often the only lasting solution. However, the fear of a lengthy recovery deters many patients from surgery. This is precisely where the AKTIS prosthesis comes into play, whose minimally invasive implantation allows patients at Dr. Nemec Special Hospital in Matulji, the first private special hospital for orthopedics in Croatia, to be on their feet the very same day.
The goal of modern orthopedics is to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible, and this is exactly the philosophy behind the AKTIS hip endoprosthesis. This latest-generation prosthesis is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson, DePuy Synthes and is designed for cementless fixation and natural bonding with the bone. "The AKTIS prosthesis is currently the most ideally designed prosthesis for minimally invasive implantation methods. Clinical research supports the long-term survival of the prosthesis and gives us confidence when implanting it in patients," explains Danijel Ivanac, MD, orthopedic specialist.
What makes this procedure special is the anterolateral approach, where muscles are not cut but carefully spread apart. The result is a smaller incision, less bleeding, and significantly less postoperative pain. "The AKTIS prosthesis can be implanted in all patients who have adequate bone for cementless implantation. Due to its shape, it is particularly suitable for minimally invasive approaches," adds Dr. Ivanac.
The speed of recovery is what sets this method apart from traditional approaches. While traditional methods often require longer hospitalization, here the hospital stay is kept to a minimum. "Recovery after prosthesis implantation typically lasts two to three days in the hospital, with patients being mobilized on the same day if their condition allows. The emphasis is on starting rehabilitation early, almost immediately after the procedure," emphasizes Dr. Ivanac.
Dr. Nemec Special Hospital, which has been developing and perfecting this solution for over 20 years, offers patients a complete service in one place. From precise diagnostics using 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI 3T), through the surgical procedure, to postoperative recovery in modernly equipped suites with continuous care from medical staff. The MRI 3T scan is available at Dr. Nemec Special Hospital throughout the summer, which is of particular importance for patients who need diagnostics immediately and without long waits.
When selecting the type of endoprosthesis, the hospital's expert team takes an individual approach to each patient, considering age, degree of joint damage, anatomical characteristics, expected level of physical activity, and previous illnesses or surgeries. Although AKTIS is the focus for patients with adequate bone for cementless implantation, the hospital also uses cemented hip endoprostheses, especially in older patients and those with osteoporosis, where special medical cement is used for firm fixation. Additionally, knee and shoulder endoprosthesis implantation procedures are successfully performed, covering the entire spectrum of orthopedic needs.
As an additional benefit, Dr. Nemec Special Hospital also offers a 10 percent discount on cash payment of the total bill, making this top-quality service more accessible. An approach that combines advanced diagnostics, team expertise, and state-of-the-art implants ensures patients a safe procedure and a quick return to an active life without pain.
