What's New: Anterior Hip Approach
E. Allan Atwell, MD now offering anterior hip approach option for total hip replacement.
The anterior approach for total hip replacement has been gaining popularity due to its potential benefits which include less pain, faster recovery, improved mobility and a smaller incision. The anterior approach offers these potential benefits over other currently used methods because the hip is approached in a way that does not detach muscles or tendons from the bone. Using this technique, the diseased joint is approached between your muscles and tissues without detaching them, sparing them from trauma. Keeping the muscles and tendons intact may also help prevent dislocations, with potentially fewer restrictions during recovery. A high tech surgical table is typically used to facilitate the exposure of the joint. Since the incision is in the front of the thigh, you avoid the pain of sitting on the incision site. While most patients are candidates for hip replacement using the anterior approach, some conditions such as extreme deformity may preclude its safe use. Dr. Atwell will be happy to discuss the advantages and help you determine if the procedure is right for you.
