Anterior Approach Hip Replacement by Top Orthopedic Doctors

The doctors of Orthopedics and Joint Replacement at Mercy are among the first orthopedic surgeons nationwide to offer anterior approach hip replacement surgery. Mercy's orthopedic surgeons are leaders in performing anterior hip surgeries in Maryland.

What is the Anterior Approach to Hip Replacement?

The anterior approach to hip replacement is an innovative, minimally-invasive approach to hip replacement that typically provides a faster recovery, less restrictions and less pain compared to traditional hip replacement surgery.

What is the difference between Anterior Hip Replacement and Traditional Hip Replacement?

Anterior approach hip replacement surgery is an advanced surgical technique in which an incision is made in the front of the hip rather than the side or back of the hip, as is done with traditional hip surgery. The anterior approach involves only a 4-5 inch incision, which allows for less disruption to muscles and tissues of the leg, while traditional hip replacement surgery involves a 10-12 inch incision.

The anterior approach enables the surgeon to work through the natural interval between muscles without the need to cut the muscle tissue, which typically results in a smoother, faster recovery. 

How is Anterior Hip Replacement performed?

Anterior hip replacement surgery is performed on a custom designed operating table called a hana® arthroplasty table. Designed exclusively for hip and knee patients, the hana® table has the capability to minimize trauma to muscles and tissue by allowing for precise placement of the leg not available with conventional tables. One leg is extended downward to allow access to the surgical site in such a way that muscles do not have to be cut.

Additionally, the table allows for X-ray imaging during the surgery for precise placement of the hip implant.

What kind of rehabilitation is required following an Anterior Hip Replacement?

The rehabilitation period following the anterior approach hip replacement is reduced compared to a traditional hip replacement. For many patients, anterior approach hip recovery will range between two and eight weeks as opposed to traditional hip surgery which requires a two to four month recovery period.

The reason anterior approach hip replacement requires less of a need for intense therapy is because muscles and tissues are undisturbed. Patients typically are able to walk stairs and no longer need to use a walker or cane prior to being discharged from the hospital. 

At Mercy, patients who receive a hip replacement participate in The Joint Journey, a program dedicated to joint replacement education and rehabilitation.

What are the benefits of Anterior Hip Replacement?

Following anterior hip replacement, patients typically can:

• Bend their hip freely
• Bear full weight when comfortable
• Return to normal function much faster

Patients often enjoy the benefits of anterior approach hip replacement, which include:

• Minimal rehabilitation
• Less bleeding
• Less post-operative pain
• Smaller scars for improved cosmetics

Who should receive Anterior Hip Replacements?

Anterior hip replacements are an alternative option for most patients in need of a primary hip replacement. Our orthopedic surgeons at Mercy work with each patient to determine if the anterior approach to hip replacement is the best treatment option.