Hip Replacements Take a BIG Step Forward: Anterior Approach Offers Fast Recovery, No Restrictions After Surgery

Williamsport, PA, November 7, 2011 – Thanks to surgical techniques and technology increasing numbers of patients in North America are receiving hip and pelvis surgery that protects tissue, offers faster recovery, allows for more accurate placement of medical implants and reduces post-operation restrictions compared to traditional hip surgery. 

At Susquehanna Health, orthopedic surgeons Dr. John Bailey, Dr. Michael Hoffman and Dr. Mark Rackish use the “anterior approach,” where the hip joint is reached from the front of the body. Performed at Williamsport Regional Medical Center, this approach allows the surgeon to operate through a natural space between the muscles, and eliminates the need to detach muscles from the pelvis or femur—unlike other procedures that take a lateral (side) or posterior (back side) approach to the hip.

Since the anterior approach leaves the muscles that provide hip function undisturbed, trauma is greatly reduced and the new hip is immediately stable after surgery.

Anterior approach hip replacement offers patients faster recovery, unrestricted mobility after surgery and far fewer complications such as hip dislocation.  “This approach is revolutionary.  It helps individuals after hip surgery to get back on their feet faster, without restrictions in range of motion,” says Dr. Hoffman.  “In addition, it improves patient satisfaction and health, shortening hospitalizations and reduces the risk of future complications.”

Although the anterior approach technique has been known for many years, difficulties in reaching the femur bone have prevented surgeons from adopting it widely.  The automated table gives surgeons better access by raising and positioning the femur, making the anterior approach easier to perform.

If a patient needs both hips replaced, both procedures can be performed in one visit to the operating room. Patients receiving the anterior approach typically leave the hospital in 1-3 days compared with 3-5 days with other approaches.

 All types of artificial hip prostheses can be used with the anterior approach.  What may be even more important, though, is that prosthetic hip implants can be situated more accurately and consistently with the anterior approach.  This ensures that both the position of the components and leg length will be correct, which are critical to normal hip function.

Anterior approach patients have no restrictions on their movements.  In contrast, patients undergoing traditional surgeries have an extensive list of movements they must avoid to prevent dislocating the new hip. Simple actions such as crossing legs and tying shoes normally may be permanently prohibited. Yoga is out. Even sitting on the toilet can risk dislocation.

“The lateral and posterior approaches to hip replacement traumatize the muscles that support the hip.  They destabilize the hip and increase the risk of dislocation,” Dr. Hoffman explains.  In the U.S., as many as 4 percent of traditional hip replacement patients will suffer hip dislocation, requiring additional hospitalizations and surgeries.

In comparison, the risk of dislocation is far lower with the anterior approach.  Above all, these patients have no range of motion restrictions after surgery.  They may weight bear as tolerated immediately after surgery.  They typically require a walker or a cane for 1-2 weeks, but can quickly transition away from these devices as the pain allows.  For more information about the anterior approach to hip surgery contact Susquehanna Health Orthopedics at 877-852-2874 or (570) 320-7448 or visit www.SusquehannaHealth.org/Orthopedics.