What is a minimally invasive hip replacement (the anterior approach)?
The anterior approach for hip replacement involves creating a cut over the front of the hip to remove injured cartilage and bone. The direct anterior approach entails sparing surrounding muscles and tendons to access the damaged bone. Due to the minimally invasive nature of the surgery, much smaller cuts are made as opposed to a twelve-inch incision made during open surgery.
Instead, Dr du Toit separates the muscles and ligaments, and installs the implants, before moving these structures back in place. As a result, there is minimal disturbance to tissue. In addition, the direct anterior approach allows immediate access to the hip joint, which is in the centre of the muscular planes. Due to the site of the incision, no muscles need to be cut or separated, and tendons don’t need to be detached. Instead, the muscles are shifted within their natural planes.
How does Dr du Toit perform the procedure?
Dr du Toit creates an incision about three to four inches in diameter over the front of the hip over the thigh area. After removing the damaged cartilage and bone, he installs the new synthetic hip without disrupting nearby muscles and tendons.
Your artificial hip is made from ceramic, plastic or metal, or in some cases, a hybrid of these options.
What can I expect in terms of my recovery?
Recovery from this particular approach is much quicker than traditional hip replacement surgery. Furthermore, you will experience minimal pain, which Dr du Toit can manage by prescribing medication to relieve discomfort. With limited interference to surrounding tissue, you can expect to return to your way of life much sooner than anticipated. Dr du Toit will advise when you can start exercising again so you can increase the strength and range of motion of the joint.