Are you considering a hip replacement and wondering which surgical approach might be best for you? The direct anterior approach (DAA) is a cutting-edge technique known for its benefits in recovery and patient outcomes. Iowa Ortho’s expert orthopedic surgeons, including Dr. Kamal Aderibigbe and Dr. Benjamin Wilke, specialize in this advanced procedure.

What is the Anterior Hip Approach?

Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) offers patients the benefits of shorter recovery times, reduced post-surgical pain, and smaller incision(s). The direct anterior approach for total hip replacement surgery offers all these advantages.

Although the direct anterior approach utilizes similar implants as standard hip replacements, they are placed using techniques that allow for:

• Accelerated recovery with less need for extensive post-operative rehabilitation.
• Lower risk of complications, including dislocation and unequal leg lengths.

This approach involves accessing the hip joint from the front (anterior) using a natural plane between two muscles. Unlike traditional posterior methods that require cutting muscles and tendons, the anterior approach spares them entirely, leading to faster recovery and less post-operative pain.

Who is a Good Candidate for an Anterior Hip Replacement?

Most patients experiencing chronic hip pain that interferes with daily activities could be candidates for the direct anterior approach. This technique is suitable for patients of all ages, provided they meet the general health criteria for surgery. Dr. Aderibigbe and Dr. Wilke tailor each surgical plan to meet their patients’ unique needs.

Why Isn’t the Anterior Approach More Common?

The direct anterior hip replacement is highly technical and requires specialized training and equipment. Surgeons need access to advanced tools, such as the PRO-fx operating table and x-ray imaging machines, to ensure precision. At Iowa Ortho, Dr. Aderibigbe and Dr. Wilke are among the few surgeons in the region trained to perform this advanced procedure for both primary and revision hip surgeries.

How is the Procedure Performed?

Patients lie flat on their back during the surgery. The incision for the anterior approach is typically smaller (10 cm or less compared to up to 15 cm with traditional methods), though this depends on the patient’s body type. During the procedure:

• Surgeons access the hip joint by gently separating two muscles, avoiding any muscle or tendon cuts.
• Utilizing advanced imaging to ensure precise implant placement, which reduces the risks of dislocation and unequal leg lengths.
• Common implant materials include ceramic on polyethylene (a high-grade plastic) or metal on polyethylene for durability.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Recovery with the anterior approach is often faster and less restrictive than traditional methods:

• Same-day physical therapy: Begins with sitting, standing, and walking shortly after surgery.
• Shorter hospital stays: Most patients are generally ready to go home on the same day.
• Rapid progress: Daily walking is the only recommended therapy. Many patients walk independently within 1-3 weeks.

Unlike traditional methods that require avoiding bending the hip past 90 degrees or crossing legs for up to six months, the anterior approach has no such restrictions. Patients can resume normal activities as soon as they feel ready.

Are There Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, though the incidence is lower with the direct anterior approach. Potential risks include:

• Numbness: Over the lateral thigh skin (usually resolves on its own).
• Dislocation or unequal leg lengths: Rare due to imaging precision.
• Blood clots: Prevented with post-operative blood thinners.
• Infection: Less than 1% incidence.
• Fracture: Though uncommon, it’s a potential risk.

Why Choose Iowa Ortho?

Dr. Aderibigbe and Dr. Wilke bring exceptional expertise and training in advanced procedures like the direct anterior hip replacement. They both specialize in primary and revision hip replacement procedures and enjoy utilizing the latest technology and advances in surgery, such as robotic surgery.

Iowa Ortho’s River Hills Surgery Center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure optimal care during this procedure. Patients benefit from 23-hour stay rooms, allowing them the necessary time to regain stability before being discharged, all while still returning home within hours of their surgery.

If hip pain is holding you back, let Iowa Ortho’s specialists help you regain your mobility. Schedule a consultation today by calling 515-247-8400 or requesting an appointment here.