Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Replacement

Overview

The Direct Anterior Approach is a surgical technique for hip replacement surgery. In this technique, your surgeon performs the surgery through the anterior (front) of your hip. Compared to other approaches, this technique may offer less pain and a faster recovery after surgery.¹

What is hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach?

In many hip replacement surgeries, the surgeon performs the procedure through the posterior (back) or lateral (side) of the hip. This often requires the cutting of large muscles, including the large muscles in the buttocks that stabilize the hip.

When using the Direct Anterior Approach, your surgeon performs the procedure through the anterior (front) of the hip. Cutting muscles is not needed. Instead, your surgeon is able to work between the muscles.

Keeping the large muscles intact may mean less pain after surgery.¹ It may also contribute to joint stability.¹

What are the benefits of the Direct Anterior Approach?

The Direct Anterior Approach to hip replacement may offer these benefits:¹

• Less pain
  The Direct Anterior Approach involves less disruption of existing tissues than other approaches. This may mean less pain during recovery.




• Smaller incision
  The incision required for the Direct Anterior Approach is usually smaller than what is needed for a posterior approach.




• Faster recovery
  Because the Direct Anterior Approach does not require the cutting of large muscles, patients may be able to recover and resume normal activities faster than patients who have a posterior approach.

Is hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach right for me?

To find out if hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach is a treatment option, make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon. The surgeon will examine your hip and review your health situation in determining if hip replacement is recommended.