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Home Anatomy Arthritis Hip Replacement Less Invasive Total Hip What to Expect on Surgery Day Post Operative Care Hip Rehabilitation Non-Surgical Alternatives Life After Hip Replacement |
Anterior Hip Replacement The anterior approach total hip replacement is a truly and uniquely minimally invasive total hip replacement. This technique is a major patient-centered advance in joint replacement. It comparatively speeds recovery and reduces the pain of traditional total hip replacement because it does not cut across muscle or tendon. By preserving healthy muscle and tendon, the recovery is both safer and more comfortable. Consequently, patients may return to a more functional lifestyle as early as possible. The surgeon accesses the hip without the need to cut through muscle or detach tendon insertions by working between muscles. By preserving important muscle, patients walk the same day. An added advantage, it is proven that a hip done with intact muscles is inherently more stable against dislocation. There is no need for postoperative precautions. In contrast to other operations, our patients undergoing the anterior approach no longer require elevated toilet seats or other specialized instrumentations to put on their shoes and socks. They may drive as soon as they are comfortable, and can sleep in any position they prefer. Recent major technological advances have made the procedure extremely reproducible and predictable. A special operating table is used that allows the surgery to be done on nearly any patient of any size or any age. The technique incorporates the most accurate form of continuous image navigation. All critical steps are done under clear direct visualization augmented with the safety of image navigation. This way the surgeon can determine exact sizing and placement of the components at all times. Safety and excellent outcomes are maximized as postoperative issues related to implant malpositioning and leg length inequality can be minimized significantly. Why don't all surgeons do Anterior Hip Replacement? Anterior hip replacement has been performed already for over 35 years starting in France before coming to North America. Only a few centers around the country can do the surgery. The procedure requires a significant investment by the hospital to purchase the specialized technical equipment and operating table. At St John's we are proud to be the leading center nationally in Anterior Hip Replacement. |
Some Content Courtesy of Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics |