Frequently Asked Questions about Anterior Hip Replacement:

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Am I a candidate for Anterior Approach hip replacement surgery?

Only your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to decide if you are a candidate for the Anterior Approach hip replacement surgery

 

How often do serious complications occur in hip replacement?

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Risks associated with hip replacement may include:

• Blood clots

• Infection

• Fracture

• Dislocation

• Loosening

• Change in leg length

According to OrthoInfo, (www.orthoinfo.aaos.org) serious complications, such as joint infection, occur in less than 2% of patients.2  Major medical complications, such as heart attack or stroke, occur even less frequently. However, chronic illnesses may increase the potential for complications. Although uncommon, when these complications occur they can prolong or limit full recovery.
 

What is the difference between the Anterior Approach to hip replacement surgery and the traditional hip replacement surgery?

The main difference is that unlike a traditional approach where the muscles are cut, the Anterior Approach allows the surgeon to work around the muscles keeping them intact. By keeping the muscles intact, the Anterior Approach may allow for less pain, faster recovery, quicker stability and fewer post-operative restrictions.

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Is the Anterior Approach procedure an “experimental” procedure?

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No, the Anterior Approach procedure has been performed in the United States for 20 years. It was originally pioneered in the 1940’s by Robert Judet. The technique remained in Europe for several decades, but was brought to the United States by Dr. Joel Matta in 1996.

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