What Are Some Hip Replacement Methods?
Hip replacement can be done through one of several anatomic approaches. The traditional approach utilized in the early days of hip replacement was a long posterior incision with an osteotomy of the greater trochanter of the femur (the trochanter was cut during the case and repaired at the end of the surgery). While this approach did offer excellent anatomic exposure, the downside was that recovery for the patient could be long and arduous.
State of the art Hana Table utilized for anterior approach total hip replacement at Johnston-Willis Hospital
Working Toward Quicker Hip Replacement Recovery
In the past ten years, there has been a concerted effort by surgeons specializing in joint replacement to work towards quicker patient recovery. Many surgeons have made it a priority to decrease the invasiveness of surgery. A minimally invasive surgical technique is more technically difficult but clearly can shorten the recovery time for patients.
Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Less Invasive Surgery
A recent development in less invasive surgery for the hip is anterior total hip arthroplasty. This surgery involves replacing the hip by making an incision on the front of the thigh rather than along the side of the hip or back of the buttock as was traditionally done. During anterior hip replacement no muscles are cut. The interval between the tensor fascia lata and sartorius muscle is utilized. The surgeon can use fluoroscopic imaging during the case to check component placement and leg length.
The risk of hip dislocation after the surgery can be dramatically lower and the recovery time for patients can be shortened significantly. The potential drawbacks to anterior hip replacement are that it is more technically demanding for the surgeon and some patients have anatomy that is not conducive to this approach. Special instrumentation is also necessary to perform this surgery.
Severe left hip osteoarthritis in a 48 year old tennis player. Note the complete loss of joint space and deformity of the femoral head
Skilled and Equipped to Shorten Recovery Time
Dr. Wind and his total joint replacement team are well skilled in anterior total hip replacement performing over 350 cases annually. This surgery has shortened recovery periods and allowed patients to return to an active lifestyle more quickly. Dr. Wind is one of the few surgeons in Central Virginia to commonly perform this procedure and offer it to his patients.
Successful treatment of hip osteoarthritis with anterior approach total hip replacement. Patient returned to tennis at 3 weeks postop with no pain
The surgery is performed on the state-of-the-art Hana Table. This table is specifically designed to facilitate an anterior approach to the hip with a minimally invasive technique. Through extensive experience in joint arthroplasty, specialized instrumentation and a dedicated joint replacement team, Dr. Wind has been able to dramatically improve outcomes for total hip patients in the Richmond area.