This relatively new hip-replacement surgery spares muscles, and might keep pain from interfering with your daily life.
If you are suffering from chronic hip pain and are exploring surgery options, you may want to talk to your doctor about anterior hip replacement. While still a relatively new approach, the benefits can include a smaller incision, quicker recovery time, less pain, decreased risk of dislocations, and more accurate restoration of leg lengths.
TexomaCare Orthopedic Surgeon J.Tyler Newton, DO, is fellowship trained and specializes in anterior hip replacements, robotic-assisted hip/knee replacements and hip/knee revisions.
What is an anterior hip replacement? The incision, Dr. Newton says, is made through the front of the hip instead of more traditional back or side approaches. “The anterior approach is a muscle-sparing technique which does not require any muscles to be split or detached during the procedure,” he says. “The procedure usually takes about 1.5 – 2 hours, and most patients are able to leave the hospital on the first postoperative day.”
Learn more about hip replacement surgery at Texoma Medical Center.
Dr. Newton says walking is the best therapy after this type of hip replacement. “Most patients do not require formal therapy. However, physical therapy can be beneficial to help strengthen the muscles around the hip in select patients,” he says. Overall patient recovery is about three months, he states, although his goal is to have patients close to their baseline and off crutches and canes by six weeks post-op.
While patients can be apprehensive about joint replacement surgery, Dr. Newton says the decision is often driven by their tolerance for discomfort. “When a patient is no longer getting relief from medications or conservative treatment, or if their pain is interfering with their daily living activities, then it is time to consider the benefits of surgery,” he says.
Dr. Newton says one of the best parts of his job is to see his patients regain their mobility. “To be able to walk around and participate in activities again without pain is a big deal,” he says, ”and it’s so rewarding for me to see them enjoy life again.”
Texoma Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Hip and Knee Joint Replacement.
Having joint replacement surgery? Sign up for camp!
TMC’s Joint and Spine Camp can help you physically, mentally and emotionally prepare for surgery. You’ll share experiences with others who are preparing for the same type of surgery.
As you prepare for your surgery, plan to attend a camp and also complete pre-operative lab work and preadmission before or following camp. Bring a “coach” with you to the camp to learn how to help you during surgery and recovery. Classes will discuss what to expect before, during and after surgery, including:
- Daily plan of events
- Pain management
- SCDs (Sequential Compression Device)
- Polar ice machines
- Pulse oximetry
- Therapy
- Self-care at home
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if robotic surgery is right for you.