Minimally invasive approaches to the hip may be divided into two categories: single mini-incisions derived from standard approaches and two-incision approaches designed specifically for minimally invasive total hip replacement. The authors have a number of specific concerns about the latter based on its apparent transgression of basic surgical principles and favour a mini-lateral approach to the hip which they describe and review.

The two-incision approach requires two short (2–5cm) incisions from two different directions. Unlike other minimally invasive techniques, these incisions run close to the major neurovascular structures, which have been damaged. Visibility is limited as demonstrated by the need for navigation systems and illuminated retractors by some groups. Accurate resection of the femoral neck is obscured by the presence of the femoral head. Precise siting of the socket may be compromised by poor visibility. Most series accomodate only the use of uncemented components. Claims for more rapid mobilisation appear to depend more on anaesthetic rather than surgical technique.

We have developed the mini-lateral approach to the hip, in parallel with others, over the last five years. It is a scaled-down version (< 10cm) of the Hardinge approach which has been used successfully for 25 years. It relies on a precise appreciation of the regional anatomy requires no additional equipment and avoids the problems posed by the two-incision approach. A short video presentation will be given.

We present a consecutive retrospective series of 99 patients having 103 cemented C-stem THA for OA over a three-year period. Patients were assessed for duration of surgery, blood loss and length of postoperative stay. At follow-up (mean 18/12) they were assessed using the Oxford Hip Score, radiographic analysis and their incisions were measured. No hips have been revised and none are considered to be at risk. No nerve or vascular injuries have been reported.