Anterior Hip Replacement is a minimally invasive, muscle-sparing surgery that uses a different approach compared to traditional hip replacement surgery. Traditionally, surgeons make the incision on the side (laterally) or at the back (posteriorly) of the hip, which involves cutting major muscles to reach the hip joint. The anterior approach, however, involves making the incision at the front of the hip, allowing the surgeon to access the hip joint without cutting any muscles. This method utilizes a special operating table that helps the surgeon position the hip optimally for replacement.
Benefits of Anterior Hip Replacement
The potential benefits of anterior hip replacement over traditional hip replacement surgery include:
- Smaller incision
- Minimal soft tissue trauma
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Less blood loss
- Shorter surgical time
- Faster healing time
- Less scarring
- Earlier mobilization
- Fewer postoperative restrictions
- Reduced risk of hip dislocations
- Shorter hospital stay
After a traditional hip replacement, surgeons typically provide instructions on hip precautions to prevent dislocating the new joint. These precautions are very restrictive and usually include:
- Avoiding the combined movement of bending the hip and turning in the foot
- Sleeping with a pillow between the legs for six weeks
- Avoiding crossing the legs and bending the hip past a right angle
- Avoiding low chairs
- Avoiding bending over to pick things up, using grabbers, and using shoe horns or slip-on shoes
- Using an elevated toilet seat
For patients undergoing Anterior Hip Replacement, however, these hip precautions are unnecessary. Since the muscles are not cut, the risk of dislocation is significantly reduced, allowing patients greater freedom of movement after surgery. Additionally, rehabilitation is much faster due to the reduced muscle trauma during the procedure.