Anterior Hip Replacement
What is an anterior hip replacement?
Anterior Hip Replacement surgery is a hip replacement surgery, where the diseased joint is removed and replaced with a metal prosthesis.· However, during anterior hip replacement the patient is on his/her back (supine) rather than on the side. Special Anterior Hip Replacement Instruments allow accurate placement of the prosthesis with no compromise in the long-term outcome of the surgery.
Some surgeons will use a special table for the procedure, but Anthony Unger, MD, a leading expert in Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery has developed a technique whereby the special table is not required. The approach is a true “muscle sparing” operation in that the surgeon goes around muscles of the hip rather than through muscle. This has several advantages. Because the muscle is not cut or traumatized, the patients recover faster and the hips are more stable and less prone to dislocation.
Peer-reviewed studies
A recent, peer reviewed study from the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia showed that the patients undergoing Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery recovered faster and had fewer complications than the standard posterior approach.
Our own research at the Minimally Invasive Surgery Center for Hip and Knee Replacement at George Washington University has scientifically proven that there is less muscle damage in the Anterior Hip Replacement when compared to posterior surgery. This study was recently presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting by Dr. Unger. See a poster of the presentation. [PDF]
Am I a good candidate for anterior hip replacement surgery?
Anterior hip replacement is ideal if you are:
- In good health
- Are at a healthy weight
- Are in good shape
What are the benefits of anterior hip replacement over another type of joint replacement?
Anterior hip replacement provides the following benefits:
- Faster recovery process
- Improves the ability of the surgeon to equalize the leg lengths
- Improves stability of the implant, reducing the need for protective “precautions” in the immediate post operative period
What can I expect from anterior hip replacement surgery?
After your initial evaluation, your surgeon will determine the appropriate course of treatment. You can expect the following from an anterior hip replacement surgery:
- A complete pre-operative workup that will focus on preparing your for your anterior hip replacement
- One to two hour surgery time
- Two to three night stay in the hospital, with physical therapy beginning the day following surgery
- Pain management protocol, reducing your dependence on pain medication every few days
- Four to six weeks of physical therapy
Download our Hip Replacement Patient Handbook [PDF].
Please call us for an appointment at 301-657-1996.
Learn more about:
- Patient Information: billing questions, office policies, preparing for surgery
- Physical Therapy: we provide a comprehensive PT practice
- Health Library: information about common foot and ankle conditions
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