If you have hip arthritis, please arrange a consultation with one of our highly qualified joint replacement surgeons to discuss how we can optimise treatment for you.
Anterior approach hip replacement allows insertion of a hip prosthesis between muscles on the front of the hip. This is a different approach to the more commonly used posterior or lateral approaches which require splitting or cutting muscles or tendons. There may be advantages with regards to operative pain and mobility in the first 6 weeks after surgery. While early recovery is important, the main focus of joint replacement is long term outcomes.
Anterior approach hip replacement uses the interval between the sartorius and tensor fascia lata muscles. The new hip is inserted with the help of gentle leg manipulation and special instruments.
Selection of the most appropriate and safest approach to surgery depends upon a number of factors, some of which relate specifically to the patient. These can include the patient’s condition, body shape and the anatomy of the patient’s hip joint.
The benefits and risks of anterior hip replacement are the same as all approaches. The main benefits are pain relief and improvement in function, walking, and quality of life. See our hip replacement information for risks of surgery.
Hip replacements performed via any approach are very successful. Some (but not all) studies report advantages from an anterior approach with regards to operative pain and mobility in the first 6 weeks.
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