Anterior Approach to Total Hip Replacement

Dr. Janke and Dr. Naide are among a very exclusive group of surgeons nationwide offering anterior approach to hip replacement surgery. They are the first – and most experienced – surgeons in South Florida who are specially trained and now performing anterior approach hip replacement surgery utilizing a specially designed Hana table. All together, the practice has performed 4,500+ anterior total hip replacements!

The anterior surgical approach, done with patients lying on their back, uses a small incision and avoids cutting of any muscles.

This approach allows for a more rapid recovery process and therefore a quicker return to normal activity. A patient’s recovery is further enhanced by the elimination of post-operative restrictions that are associated with traditional hip replacement surgery.

Another benefit of the anterior approach, is that the surgery is done with the patient lying on their back, and the incision is in the front of the hip. This allows us to use x-ray guidance in the operating room as well as computerized navigation. Both of these techniques allow for more accurate measurement of leg lengths at the time of surgery. Furthermore, with the intra-operative information gained from the x-ray or the computer, these help assure excellent placement of the implants.

Approximately 375,000 Americans undergo hip replacement surgery each year. This number is expected to almost double over the next 25 years due in part to the aging of the population. “Our goal, as orthopedic surgeons, is to reduce the debilitating pain from the arthritis and improve quality of life for our patients.” Utilizing the anterior approach with high quality hip replacement implants, our patients should expect a more rapid recovery with less restrictions.

It is important to realize that this is not a new technique. It has been done in Europe for many years with excellent results. The approach is somewhat technically demanding. The Hana table greatly aids in this approach. Patients interested in learning more about hip replacement surgery through the anterior approach can contact our office.