Abstract
Over the past 15 years Anterior Approach (AA) THA has shown a dramatic increase in adoption by surgeons (over 30%) and choice by patients with a corresponding decrease in the percentage of hips performed with traditional posterior and lateral approaches.
I began AA in 1996 in order to solve the classic problems of potential dislocation associated with posterior approach and potential abductor weakness associated with the lateral (Harding) approach. Surgeon education on AA began in 2013 and has accelerated since.
AA is usually performed with the aid of an orthopaedic table which facilitates exposure though many cases are also performed on a standard operating table. Intraoperative image intensification has provided real-time feedback and accuracy for cup position leg length and offset and is facilitated by the supine position and a radiolucent orthopaedic table, however, AA can be performed without it.
Earlier functional recovery with decreased post-operative pain is the best documented benefit of AA as well as decreased dislocation rate.
My own point of view is to take advantage of a switch to AA to improve more than your surgical approach. Improve also hip biomechanics, cup position, ease of surgery, bone preparation, and soft tissue handling. A proven and repeatable technique and use of available technologies will facilitate this.
