Anterior Total Hip Replacement
Summary
The anterior total hip replacement is a minimally invasive approach for hip replacement surgery where the surgeon accesses the hip joint from the front (anterior) of the hip. Unlike traditional posterior or lateral approaches, the anterior method avoids cutting major muscles, which can result in a quicker recovery.
Benefits
Useage of X Ray Intraop: Easy to get a perfect AP x ray during surgery which allows for more accurate placement of components in the ideal position
Faster Recovery: Less muscle damage typically leads to a shorter recovery time.
Reduced Pain: Patients often experience less post-operative pain due to minimized muscle disruption.
Lower Risk of Dislocation: Preserving the posterior hip muscles can lead to a more stable hip joint, reducing the risk of dislocation.
Smaller Incision: The incision is generally smaller and more cosmetically appealing, with potentially less scarring
Recovery
Same Day Discharge: Many patients are discharged the same day as surgery
Walking immediately: Will begin walking with walker immediately after surgery
Physical Therapy: Most patients are ambulating with no assistive device by 3 weeks postoperatively and no additional therapy is needed after this
Full Recovery: Fully healed from surgery 10-12 weeks post op but most patients have returned to work before that depending on type of job
