HIP

Direct Anterior Approach for total hip replacement

The Direct Anterior Approach for total hip replacement is a surgical technique in which your surgeon performs the surgery through the anterior (front) of your hip.

Overview

The Direct Anterior Approach is a surgical technique for hip replacement surgery. In this technique, your surgeon performs the surgery through the anterior (front) of your hip. Compared to other approaches, this technique may offer less pain and a faster recovery after surgery.¹

What is hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach?

In many hip replacement surgeries, the surgeon performs the procedure through the posterior (back) or lateral (side) of the hip. This often requires the cutting of large muscles, including the large muscles in the buttocks that stabilize the hip.

When using the Direct Anterior Approach, your surgeon performs the procedure through the anterior (front) of the hip. Cutting muscles is not needed. Instead, your surgeon is able to work between the muscles.

Keeping the large muscles intact may mean less pain after surgery.¹ It may also contribute to joint stability.¹

What are the benefits of the Direct Anterior Approach?

The Direct Anterior Approach to hip replacement may offer these benefits:¹

Patient stories

Is hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach right for me?

To find out if hip replacement with the Direct Anterior Approach is a treatment option, make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon. The surgeon will examine your hip and review your health situation in determining if hip replacement is recommended.

Learn more about the procedure and recovery process

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What are the risks involved?

All surgery has risks and the potential for complications. Talk to your surgeon about any concerns you may have before you decide on treatment. Some of the possible risks and complications for hip replacement include:

Blood clotting
Blood clotting problems – such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) – may occur after surgery and interrupt normal blood flow. Your medical team may recommend medications and exercises to reduce the risk.

Infection
Infection may occur at the surgical site or elsewhere in the body. If a serious infection occurs, additional surgery or removal of the implant may be needed.

Pneumonia
After surgery, pneumonia or other breathing problems may develop. Your medical team may recommend measures to reduce the risk.

Nerve problems
Nerves or blood vessels in the hip area may be damaged during surgery.

Fracture
It is possible for the upper part of the femur (thigh bone) to break after the stem is inserted. This may be caused by putting too much weight on the joint too quickly, or by small movements of the stem that can weaken the bone over time.

Hip dislocation
Hip dislocation may happen after surgery. The new ball and socket components are smaller than your natural hip, so the ball may pop out of the socket if the hip moves in certain positions. Your medical team will give you tips for avoiding this issue.

Implant wear or failure
The hip implant may become worn, loose, or damaged. It may not perform as expected. In some cases, another surgery may be needed to correct or replace the implant.

This is not a complete list of risks. In some cases, you may need additional surgery to address a complication. Talk to your surgeon about the possible risks for your specific health situation.

Disclaimers

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not meant as medical advice. Not everyone is a candidate for total hip replacement using the Direct Anterior Approach, and individual results of joint replacement will vary. Implants are intended to relieve hip pain and improve function but may not produce the same feel or function as your original hip. Every patient's case is unique, and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Potential risks include loosening, wear, and infection that may result in the need for additional surgery. Discuss your implant options with your surgeon. Please discuss nutrition, medication, and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.

^◊Trademark of Smith+Nephew. 40710 4/2024

Citations

Ang, J.J.M., Onggo, J.R., Stokes, C.M. et al. Comparing direct anterior approach versus posterior approach or lateral approach in total hip arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol. 2023; 33: 2773–2792.