Hip Replacement Anterior Versus Posterior Approach

The anterior approach hip replacement is a muscle splitting approach meaning that the surgeon gets to the hip between two muscles rather than by removing and then reattaching a muscle.

Hip replacement anterior versus posterior approach.

The most obvious difference between anterior and posterior hip replacement surgeries is the location of the incisions. Anyone with a painful or deteriorating hip should ask their doctor about anterior vs. Posterior hip replacement surgery is the traditional approach but it takes you longer to heal. The surgical steps of an anterior approach hip replacement differ from the steps of the posterior approach.

Posterior hip replacements for patients with osteoarthritis or that have experienced trauma to their hip a total hip replacement can restore function and decrease pain. Anterior approach posterior approach direct superior approach anterolateral approach and direct lateral approach. These differences can have short term and possibly long term effects on patients. The big difference in anterior vs posterior hip replacement is primarily where the incision is made and how long it is.

There are actually a variety of hip replacement approaches including. From that point on i have used the anterior approach to hip replacement almost exclusively for primary hip replacement and have even used it on selective revision surgery. In a posterior hip replacement the procedure is done on the side of the hip. Over the years each approach has had its day in the sun.

In the short term anterior hip replacement is less painful and leads to a quicker recovery of mobility and strength compared to a posterior or lateral approach. This is done by replacing the damaged or diseased bone with a metal or plastic implant which is designed to replicate a healthy hip joint. The advantage is thought to be that rehabilitation can proceed more quickly by not having to allow the reattached muscle to heal. During this traditional approach the orthopedic surgeon makes an 8 10 inch while you lie on your side.