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Total Hip Replacement: Direct Anterior Approach

GW Hospital offers the minimally-invasive direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip replacement. Using this technique, the surgeon uses one small incision on the front (anterior) of the patient's hip as opposed to the lateral (side) or posterior (side.) This technique allows the surgeon to replace a hip joint by working between muscles and tissues, without detaching or splitting them, which can help reduce risk of trauma to the tissue.
Potential benefits of this direct anterior approach include:
  • Possible accelerated recovery time because gluteal muscles are not detached or split during the operation. (Other procedures may require cutting or disturbing these muscles.).
  • Potential for fewer limitations during recovery. Although each patient responds differently, this approach can allow a patient's hip to freely bend and bear their full weight immediately or soon after surgery.
  • Potential for stability of the implant sooner after the surgery, the result, in part, of the ability to not disturb key muscles and tissues during the operation.
  • Less muscle damage and inflammation of the tissues surrounding the hip.
  • Better ability for the surgeon to equalize the length of the legs at the time of surgery.
Every surgical approach has risks and benefits. Several factors will determine the success of your hip replacement including your age, weight, activity level, rehabilitation and other factors.

Anthony Unger, MD

Unger, Anthony updated 8-06Anthony Unger, MD, is Director of the Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement Surgery Program at The George Washington University Hospital.

To make an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist, call 1-888-4GW-DOCS.


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