Total hip replacement — anterior approach

A total hip replacement removes the damaged ball of the hip joint and replaces it with an artificial ball and stem. The damaged socket is lined with an artificial cup. These components may be fixed with bone cement or designed to allow bone to grow onto them.

With the direct anterior approach, the hip is reached through the front of the joint. Angus works between the muscles rather than approaching through the side or back of the hip.

Potential advantages

• Less disruption to the surrounding muscles
• Earlier mobilisation
• A shorter hospital stay
• Fewer restrictions during early recovery
• A quicker return to comfortable everyday activities for some patients

Angus uses this approach for most primary hip replacements. A different approach may be safer or more suitable for some patients, depending on their anatomy, previous surgery and individual needs.

• Severe hip pain limiting walking, sleep or daily activities
• Stiffness and reduced movement
• Osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis or selected hip fractures
• Symptoms that have not improved with non-surgical treatment