Total hip replacement surgeries carry many significant risks when performed in the traditional manner. The risks get higher when the surgery is long, when muscles are cut from the bone, and when the incision is long. All of these risk factors are in place with the traditional approach to total hip replacement.
The risk for painful dislocations is also moderate to high after traditional hip replacement surgery. For example, the patient is required to stay in a position that will ensure the new hip stays in place. This can last for a few days, causing discomfort in the entire body. Because of the discomfort involved, many people will move when they should not, causing improper healing.
Delays Cause Complications
It is no small wonder that people have tried to live with their pain and limitations placed on them by a hip joint going bad for years. Some wait until they simply cannot function because they are trying to avoid a dangerous and painful surgery with a recovery time upwards of six months. Many are looking into more modern, less risky types of hip replacement surgery.
What is the Anterior Approach?
The anterior approach to total hip replacement surgery uses a new table that positions the patient specifically for this procedure. They are elongated and their pelvic muscles, bones, and joints are in the best possible positions, making the surgery easier for all involved. Using the anterior approach the surgeon can access the hip from a better angle.
Better access to the hip joint also means that the incision will be four to eight inches, as opposed to ten to twelve that the traditional method calls for. The muscles do not have to be
cut from the bone. All three of these benefits significantly reduce the risk of blood loss. Because of this, the patient has fewer worries going into the procedure.
After Hip Surgery
When the surgery is completed using the anterior approach, some patients can stand and even walk that day. Those who do not walk within hours after surgery are encouraged to walk the next day. They can sit or lie in any position they like without risk of dislocation.
The way the hip is placed with the anterior approach, people can have a surprisingly adequate range of motion afterwards. Being able to walk and move around improves the patient's chances of life threatening risks like blood clots, post surgical pneumonia, and infection. Because the muscle is not cut away from the femur, the patient doesn't require physical therapy to re-learn how to walk.
Personal Advantages with Anterior Hip Surgery
Aside from the medical advantages of the anterior approach for pelvic surgery provides there are many personal advantages the patient can enjoy. The scar will be smaller. This is a small comfort, but a comfort that should not be overlooked.
The risk for dislocations in the future is nearly eliminated. Patients who undergo hip replacement surgery via the anterior approach have reported positive post-operative results. Hip dislocations after traditional hip surgery are a fairly common occurrence. Surgery is often required again to replace the dislocated joint.
Many people who need hip replacement surgery are otherwise healthy and have careers and active lifestyles. With the anterior approach, they can return to their busy lives much more quickly. In as little to four to six weeks the patient will be back to their normal daily routine.
Author Resource:-
Dr. Joel Matta is an orthopedic surgeon and the founder and director of the Hip and Pelvis Institute at St John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. He is accredited with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Dr. Matta has performed over 600 total hip replacement surgeries using the anterior approach. More information about the anterior approach can be found at http://www.hipandpelvis.com
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