Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty

Leading Hip Surgery Center in Spartanburg, Duncan and Greenville, SC

Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty Overview

Total hip arthroplasty is a treatment option for severe hip arthritis. There are several hip arthroplasty approaches. The newest and least invasive is an anterior approach. Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) joint replacement experts specialize in anterior approach total hip arthroplasty.

How is Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed?

Anterior total hip arthroplasty is performed under general anesthesia. A CONA joint replacement specialist:

  • Accesses the joint front the front of the hip where there are no large muscles
  • Removes arthritic bone and cartilage
  • Bonds perfectly sized components to bone

Total procedure time is 1-2 hours. The new hip moves properly and does not cause pain.

What Conditions Does it Treat?

If you are experiencing hip problems, CONA may first recommend alternative treatments. These include pain or inflammation-relieving medications, walking aids, and physical therapy. If you continue to experience pain and have difficulty moving, hip replacement surgery may be an option.
The majority of hip replacements are performed to treat arthritis-related pain and damage. In osteoarthritis, the joint is harmed by prolonged wear and tear. Inflammation causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and tissue damage in rheumatoid arthritis. Other reasons for hip replacement surgery include:
  • A fractured or injured hip
  • Bone that has perished due to insufficient blood supply (avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis)
  • Bone tumors
The anterior approach to total hip replacement is not an option for everyone. There may be additional surgical options available, such as total hip resurfacing. Consult with CONA to determine what is appropriate for you.

What Are The Advantages of This Procedure?

The anterior approach may allow your surgeon to perform surgery through a smaller incision (incision). The incision is made in the front of the hip, as opposed to the side or back as in conventional hip replacements. There may be additional benefits to undergoing surgery in this fashion. These include:

  • Less muscle trauma
  • Less pain
  • Faster and simpler recovery
  • Less limping
  • Reduced hospital stays
  • Reduced risk of hip dislocation

These procedures are frequently performed under regional or general anesthesia.

What Should I Expect From Recovery?

You will be monitored in a room while your anesthesia wears off after surgery. You will receive pain medication. You may receive anti-nausea medication if necessary.

After your initial recuperation, you will be transferred to your hospital room. You should be able to gradually resume eating and drinking. It may be necessary for you to wear stockings or plastic devices to prevent blood from pooling in your legs. You may be given instructions on how to perform breathing exercises and cough to prevent pneumonia.

Your doctor may decide to obtain an X-ray or other imaging test to examine your hip. There may also be a need for blood count tests.

Your healthcare provider will let you know when it is safe to begin walking and when you can begin bearing weight on your leg. Depending on your condition, you may return home within a day or so.

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South Carolina Orthopedic Hip Surgery Locations

Spartanburg, South Carolina

1330 Boiling Springs Rd, Ste 1600
Spartanburg, SC 29303
Directions to Spartanburg

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contact us: (864) 501-0541

Duncan, South Carolina

115 Deacon Tiller Ct.
Duncan, SC 29334
Directions to Duncan

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contact us: (864) 362-3461

Greenville, South Carolina

220 Roper Mountain Road Ext
Greenville, SC 29615
Directions To Greenville

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contact us: (864) 582-6396

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