Anterior Hip Replacement

What is Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Surgery?

Anterior hip replacement is a minimally invasive hip surgery to replace the hip joint from the front (anterior) using a specialized surgical table that allows Dr. Eccles to move the legs independently throughout the procedure. The surgery is done without cutting through any major muscles or tendons.

Anterior Hip Replacement Procedure

• Anterior hip replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia. You will lie down on your back, on a special operating table that enables Dr. Eccles to perform the surgery from the front of the hip. He will also use fluoroscopic imaging during the surgery to ensure the accuracy of component positioning and to minimize leg length inequality.
• A surgical cut is made in the front of the hip region. The muscles are pushed aside to gain access to the joint and perform the replacement.
• The surface of the socket is cleaned and the damaged or arthritic bone is removed using a reamer. The acetabular cup component is inserted into the socket in a press fit manner, or occasionally using screws or bone cement. A liner made of plastic, is placed inside the acetabular component and serves as a smooth gliding surface.
• The femur or thighbone is prepared by removing the arthritic femoral head portion and preparing the femoral canal to accept a metal femoral component. This femoral component is then inserted into the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. Then, the femoral head ball component made of ceramic is placed on the femoral stem. Both sides of the hip joint with the new components are put in their proper positions together. The entire joint is then irrigated and cleaned with a sterile solution. The incision is carefully closed and a sterile dressing is placed over the incision.

Risks and Complications of Anterior Hip Replacement

All surgeries and various approaches to the hip carry an element of risk, whether it is related to the anesthesia or the procedure itself. Risks and complications with anterior hip replacement are rare, but can occur and may include:

• Infection at the incision site or joint space
• Fracture of the femur or pelvis
• Injury to nerves or blood vessels
• Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
• Leg length inequality
• Wearing out of the hip prosthesis
• Failure to relieve pain
• Loosening of the implant
• Dislocation

Advantages of Anterior Hip Replacement

The advantages of anterior hip replacement include:

• Smaller incision
• Potentially less postoperative pain
• Minimal soft-tissue trauma
• Potentially quicker recovery
• Less postoperative restrictions
• Quicker return to normal activities
• Lower risk of dislocation

If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of hip arthritis or would like to learn more about anterior hip replacement surgery, please contact Christian J. Eccles, M.D., serving the communities of Gilbert, AZ.

Why Choose Dr. Christian Eccles for Anterior Hip Replacement

Anterior hip replacement calls for specialized training and equipment. Here is why patients choose Dr. Eccles for this approach:

• Specialized training: Dr. Eccles completed a five-year orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Louisville and an Adult Reconstruction Fellowship in hip and knee replacement at Indiana University.
• Specialized table and live imaging: Dr. Eccles uses a specialized surgical table and fluoroscopic X-ray imaging during surgery to help position your implants accurately and minimize leg length differences.
• AI-assisted navigation: OrthoGrid Hip AI overlays a smart grid on intraoperative X-rays to give Dr. Eccles real-time measurements of cup position, leg length, and offset.
• An approach chosen for you: Because Dr. Eccles performs both anterior and posterior hip replacement, we will recommend the approach that best fits your anatomy and goals.
• Same-day option: Appropriately selected patients can have anterior hip replacement as an outpatient at Arizona Spine and Joint Hospital.

Anterior Hip Replacement FAQs

Is the anterior approach better than the posterior approach?

Both approaches use the same implants, and overall outcomes are similar. Each has its own specific benefits and risks, and Dr. Eccles will help you decide which is best for your hip.

Will I have hip precautions after surgery?

Anterior hip replacement typically comes with fewer postoperative restrictions than other approaches. You will receive specific instructions before you go home, and it is important to follow them.

Is anterior hip replacement right for everyone?

Not always. Your anatomy, body type, bone quality, and any previous hip surgery can influence which approach is safest for you.

Will I have less pain with the anterior approach?

Because major muscles and tendons are not cut, some patients have less pain early in recovery, but every person heals differently. We use a pain-control plan that aims to keep you comfortable and moving.