Where is the incision for anterior hip surgery?
Anterior hip replacement surgery uses an incision at the front of the hip. This incision typically starts at the top of the pelvic bone (iliac crest) and extends down toward the top of the thigh. Less commonly, the incision is made horizontally.
What is the recovery time for anterior hip replacement?
Total recovery time for an anterior approach is approximately four weeks which is about half of the time it takes with a traditional approach.
What is the difference between anterior and posterior hip precautions?
With an anterior approach, you are pushing the muscles to the side and not really cutting through any tendons or any muscles in order to access the hip. For the posterior approach, there are some muscles that you do need to detach in order to get down to the hip joint itself.
Are there hip precautions with anterior approach?
There are generally no hip precautions necessary after the direct anterior approach, so motion is not restricted. Patients can return to work when they feel comfortable, although this typically takes 2 weeks or more.
How soon can you walk after anterior hip replacement?
Most patients’ goal is to walk normally and without assistance 2 months after surgery, but this may happen sooner. Walking can continue to be part of a regular exercise routine. Biking can improve leg and hip muscle strength and increase the new hip’s range of motion.
How painful is anterior hip replacement?
In the short-term, anterior hip replacement is less painful and leads to a quicker recovery of mobility and strength compared to a posterior or lateral approach. The long-term outcome is very good and similar to other approaches.
Can you bend over after anterior hip replacement?
Common post-operative guidelines after Anterior Hip Replacement include the following: You may bend your hip immediately after surgery and bear full weight when comfortable. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to keep you comfortable at home. Keep the incision clean and dry.
Who is a good candidate for anterior hip replacement?
Patient Eligibility for Anterior Replacement For example, some surgeons believe that the best candidates for anterior hip replacement surgery are patients who are not obese or overly muscular. These surgeons may have specific cut-offs for eligibility (for example, a BMI below 35).
What can’t you do after anterior hip replacement?
Post-Operative Care
- Avoid the combined movement of bending your hip and turning in your foot.
- You should sleep with a pillow between your legs for 6 weeks.
- Avoid crossing your legs and bending your hip past a right angle.
- Avoid low chairs.
- Avoid bending over to pick things up.
- An elevated toilet seat should be used.
Do you need physical therapy after anterior hip replacement?
Hip replacement surgery techniques allow for a short and successful recovery for most patients after leaving the operating room, but the return to your day-to-day activities will be gradual. Your recovery will require the assistance of a physical therapist and performing a series of exercises two or three times a day.
