Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - What is it for

The Hip

The “hip” is a ball and socket joint, consisting of a ball at the top of the thigh bone (femur) and a rounded socket (acetabulum) in the pelvis. It allows the upper leg to bend and rotate at the pelvis. A healthy joint has cartilage at the ends of the bones that acts as a cushion. It allows the joints to move smoothly and painlessly.

Osteoarthritis

When cartilage begins to wear out, the underlying bones begin to rub together, which results in pain when walking. This condition is known as osteoarthritis.

In severe osteoarthritis, it limits a person’s functional abilities and affects their lifestyle.

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Symptoms

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - How to prevent?

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Causes and Risk Factors

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Diagnosis

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Treatments

Total Hip Replacement

The primary reason is to relieve the painful symptoms and improve your quality of life.

The surgeon will makes an incision over your hip. Damaged cartilage is removed and replaced with artificial parts. The artificial parts are usually made up of metal, ceramic or polyethylene (high grade plastics). One part of the implant will fit over the pelvic bone and the other over the thigh bone (femur).

Risks of Surgery

Complications will be explained to you by your surgeon before surgery. You will be required to sign an informed consent prior to surgery.

The potential risks are:

Infection - Deep Vein Thrombosis
Stiffness - Leg Length Discrepancy
Nerve and blood vessels injury - Dislocation
Loosening and wear of prosthesis - Periprosthetic Fracture

Duration of Hospital Stay

This could be either a day surgery with discharge on the same day
May require 1-2 days of hospitalisation

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Preparing for surgery

Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) - Post-surgery care

Care after Orthopaedic Surgery

The aim of care after your surgery is to allow you to return to your daily activities. The team will advise you regarding the daily activities and the physiotherapy sessions.

Orthopaedic Team

You are cared by a multidisciplinary team comprising of the Surgeon , Doctors , Advanced Practice Nurses/ Resident Nurses/ Nurses, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Medical Social Worker & Dietician.

Find out more about Post Surgery Care for Total Hip Replacement (Direct Anterior Approach) here >

Rehabilitation by your Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist