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What is the Best Surgical Approach for Hip Replacement?

hip implant image

Hip replacement surgery requires removing the arthritic or damaged hip joint and replacing it with artificial components. It is a highly successful procedure at improving quality of life for individuals with arthritis of the hip. There are several ways to get inside the hip joint and many opinions exist on what is the “best” surgical approach. So, what is the “best” way to do this surgery?

A quick search of the internet and talking to friends may leave you confused or even misinformed.

Simply put, any of the surgical approaches can be “best” depending on the situation. It is important to remember that no matter the approach, the principles of a well performed hip replacement are the same. When you find a qualified surgeon who you trust and who is experienced in hip replacement, go with whichever approach they recommend.

The 3 most common approaches for hip replacement are:

  1. Posterior or Posterolateral
  2. Lateral or Anterolateral
  3. Direct Anterior

Like any choice, each option presents unique benefits and potential limitations. The best and most up-to-date studies show that any of the approaches provide equivalent long-term success when done well. Ask your surgeon at New Braunfels Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine which approach is preferred for your particular case and feel assured that, regardless the answer, scientific evidence strongly favors a good outcome regardless of approach.

Author
Creighton C. Tubb, MD Creighton C. Tubb, MD Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery; New Braunfels Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, New Braunfels, Texas

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