Direct Anterior Hip Replacement
What is a Direct Anterior Hip Replacement?
Direct Anterior Hip Replacement is a minimally invasive approach to total hip replacement. The procedure often results in a smaller incision, reduced muscle damage and faster recovery times for the patient.
Unlike traditional hip replacement techniques which usually involve operating from the side (lateral) or back (posterior) of the hip, the Direct Anterior approach operates from the front.
By making an incision at the front of the hip, your South Coast Orthopaedics surgeon does not need to detach the hip’s muscles or tendons.
By making an incision at the front of the hip, your South Coast Orthopaedics surgeon does not need to detach the hip’s muscles or tendons.
Is a direct anterior hip replacement right for me?
AlthoughDirect Anterior Hip Replacements are not suitable for everyone, our surgeons are recognised leaders in this technique and train other orthopaedic specialists in this method.
At your consultation in our rooms, your orthopaedic surgeon will advise you on whether this approach is best for you. As with all medical procedures, it is important to discuss your options with your surgeon, your GP and your family.
At your consultation in our rooms, your orthopaedic surgeon will advise you on whether this approach is best for you. As with all medical procedures, it is important to discuss your options with your surgeon, your GP and your family.
How long will I be in hospital?
The hospital stay for Direct Anterior Hip Replacement is usually shorter. Most people who have a Direct Anterior Hip Replacement are in hospital for two to three days. Your surgeon will discuss your individual hospital stay with you at our rooms prior to surgery.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery time for a Direct Anterior Hip Replacement takes between two to eight weeks. This is considerably shorter than the expected eight to sixteen-week recovery time of traditional (posterior or lateral) hip replacements.
What are the advantages of having a Direct Anterior Hip Replacement?
There are several advantages to having a Direct Anterior Hip Replacement, including;
- Reduced hospital stays
- Faster recovery
- Reduced pain
- Lower risk of hip dislocation
- Smaller incision point / scar
- Fewer precautions need to be taken post-surgery (you can generally sit or sleep in whichever position is most comfortable for you.
What results should I expect?
Most patients can expect pain-free walking, bending, kneeling, and stair climbing after the first six to eight weeks. You should also be able to return to low-impact sports such as swimming, golf, cycling, and most gym exercises. Talk to your surgeon about what your individual expectations should be after surgery.