Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty

Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty Overview

Total hip arthroplasty is a treatment option for severe hip arthritis. There are several hip arthroplasty approaches. The newest and least invasive is an anterior approach. Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) joint replacement experts specialize in anterior approach total hip arthroplasty.

How is Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed?

Anterior total hip arthroplasty is performed under general anesthesia. A CONA joint replacement specialist:

• Accesses the joint front the front of the hip where there are no large muscles
• Removes arthritic bone and cartilage
• Bonds perfectly sized components to bone

Total procedure time is 1-2 hours. The new hip moves properly and does not cause pain.

What Conditions Does it Treat?

• A fractured or injured hip
• Bone that has perished due to insufficient blood supply (avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis)
• Bone tumors

What Are The Advantages of This Procedure?

The anterior approach may allow your surgeon to perform surgery through a smaller incision (incision). The incision is made in the front of the hip, as opposed to the side or back as in conventional hip replacements. There may be additional benefits to undergoing surgery in this fashion. These include:

• Less muscle trauma
• Less pain
• Faster and simpler recovery
• Less limping
• Reduced hospital stays
• Reduced risk of hip dislocation

These procedures are frequently performed under regional or general anesthesia.

What Should I Expect From Recovery?

You will be monitored in a room while your anesthesia wears off after surgery. You will receive pain medication. You may receive anti-nausea medication if necessary.

After your initial recuperation, you will be transferred to your hospital room. You should be able to gradually resume eating and drinking. It may be necessary for you to wear stockings or plastic devices to prevent blood from pooling in your legs. You may be given instructions on how to perform breathing exercises and cough to prevent pneumonia.

Your doctor may decide to obtain an X-ray or other imaging test to examine your hip. There may also be a need for blood count tests.

Your healthcare provider will let you know when it is safe to begin walking and when you can begin bearing weight on your leg. Depending on your condition, you may return home within a day or so.