As an orthopaedic surgeon with Hinsdale Orthopaedics, I have operated on hip replacement patients for years. However, some of the patients who had traditional hip replacement experienced post-operative pain and a long recovery process. I wanted more for my patients.
When I was introduced to the Direct Anterior Approach to total hip replacement in 2005, I knew that it was a technique that offered a quicker recuperation and less post-operative pain than traditional hip replacement. The Direct Anterior Approach allows the surgeon to reach the hip joint from the front of the hip, not the side or posterior. This helps to replace the hip without detaching muscle from the pelvis or femur. The important gluteal muscles, which play a key role in hip function, are less affected than with traditional hip replacement surgery.
My specialty in trauma surgery also made me uniquely positioned to specialize in this approach, as I am accustomed to this approach and to using intra-op xray guidance in placing internal hardware. After specialized training, I went on to become one of the first in the Chicago area to perform this procedure.
Now that I have successfully performed more than100 Direct Anterior Approach hip replacements, I train other surgeons in this method. I am convinced it is the most beneficial surgery for most patients with a variety of hip conditions.
Here are some of the advantages of the Direct Anterior Approach over traditional hip replacement surgery:
- Less pain post-operation
- No restriction of post-op activity
- More accurate leg lengths and alignment with intra-operative X-ray
- Decreased risk of post-op hip dislocation
- Minimal incision and scarring
- Patients may walk same day as surgery
- Little or no physical rehabilitation
- Procedure is easier for patients who are overweight or obese
- Earlier release from hospital
- Cost-effective because shorter hospital stay
The success of the Direct Anterior Approach surgery depends on several factors, one is having a highly-trained and experienced surgeon. And, while the Direct Anterior Approach makes sense for most hip replacement patients, it may not be the best choice for a select few. You should talk with your doctor if you have questions about the Direct Anterior Approach for total hip replacement.
I am always available for a consultation and welcome your questions. Please call my Hinsdale Orthopaedics office at 630-323-6116, ext. 7123. I’m looking forward to helping you get back to your active life quickly.
-Steven Louis, MD
Dr. Steven Louis of Hinsdale Orthopaedics is conducting a free, informational seminar on this technique. The seminar will be held at 7 p.m., Tuesday, January 25, in the Red and Black Oak Rooms at Good Samaritan Hospital, 3815 Highland Avenue in Downers Grove. To register, please call 1.800.323.8622 and use event code 4G78. This event is free and open to the public.
