If arthritis or an injury has severely damaged your hip, your mobility is likely significantly limited, not to mention the daily pain you experience. When other treatments fail to manage your condition effectively, your doctor may recommend anterior hip replacement surgery. Also called total hip arthroplasty,total hip replacement replaces a worn out or damaged hip joint.
This is the treatment of choice when hip problems interfere with your daily life and conservative treatments aren’t enough. We’ve gathered information that will help you understand the benefits and limitations of total hip replacement using the anterior approach.
When considering a total hip replacement using the anterior approach, Barrington Orthopedic Specialists offers extensive experience with a patient-centered philosophy and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring personalized and comprehensive treatment plans for optimal recovery.
How A Healthy Hip Works
The hip is one of the largest joints in your body, and it plays a key role in movement. It’s also susceptible to wear and tear because it bears the brunt of the force during weight-bearing activities like walking and climbing stairs.
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The rounded head of the femur forms the ball, which fits into the socket of the hip. Cartilage and tissue between bones in your joints provide cushion for the bones when you move.
The joint itself is surrounded by lubricating fluid to make movement smooth, so you can bend and move with ease. Ligaments — tough bands of tissue — connect the femur to the socket to keep the joint stable.
Damage to, or breakdown of, any of these crucial parts of the hip spells trouble. If the cartilage breaks down, for example, the joint lacks cushion and the bones rub together, resulting in pain and movement limitations.
Hip Pain
Arthritic conditions are the most common cause of hip pain and mobility problems. Osteoarthritis, the leading form of arthritis, is an age-related wear and tear of the joint. Vital parts of the hip joint, like the cartilage, wear away, resulting in stiffness, pain, and trouble with movement. When the joint wears down too deeply, surgery is often necessary.
Anterior Approach To Hip Replacement
The direct anterior approach for hip replacement is a surgical technique where the surgeon accesses the hip joint from the front, potentially allowing for less muscle damage and a faster recovery. Dr. Hasham Alvi at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists performs this method, offering many benefits, including:
- Smaller incision
- Less pain
- Lower risk of hip dislocation
- Shorter hospital stay
- Less trauma to the surrounding muscle
- Less limping
What Should I Expect From Total Hip Replacement Anterior Approach?
Surgeons perform more than 300,000 hip replacement surgeries each year. Knowing what to expect can ease your anxiety surrounding the procedure. Physical therapy is one of the most important factors in recovering from total hip replacement. Physical therapy begins while you’re in the hospital and continues once you’re discharged. It’s important to learn how to improve your range of motion and strength as you recover. The goal is to return to your normal activities.
As you can see, the decision to have total hip replacement surgery can greatly improve your quality of life.
Why Choose Barrington Orthopedic Specialists for Direct Anterior Hip Replacement?
When you opt for Barrington Orthopedic Specialists for your direct anterior hip replacements, you're stepping into a world of proficiency, guided by the skilled hands of Dr. Hasham Alvi, an orthopedic surgeon who's mastered this minimally invasive technique. Our patients are at the heart of our personalized care journey, from top-notch surgical procedures to integrated post-operative rehab.
Our conveniently situated clinics in Buffalo Grove, Bartlett, Elk Grove Village, and Schaumburg make premier orthopedic care effortlessly within reach. We've spent over four decades establishing a stellar reputation, a testament to our dedication to trailblazing orthopedic solutions and delivering remarkable patient outcomes. Your mobility is our priority - place your trust in our expert care. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we’re committed to helping you regain your mobility and enhance your quality of life.
Don’t let hip pain limit your life. Reach out to Dr. Hasham Alvi of Barrington Orthopedic Specialists for expert direct anterior hip replacement surgery. Click here to request an appointment or give us a call at 847-285-4200 to take the first step towards a life free from hip pain.
Your mobility is our priority - place your trust in our expert care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hip implant?
A hip implant is an artificial device used to replace a damaged or worn-out hip joint. It is made up of several components, including a ball (femoral head), socket (acetabulum), and stem, which work together to mimic the natural function of a hip joint. A new hip implant can greatly improve mobility and reduce pain for those suffering from hip problems.
Are there any risks associated with hip replacement surgery?
As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved with hip replacement surgery. These may include blood clots, infection, dislocation of the artificial hip, and nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimize them during your procedure.
What conditions can lead to the need for hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended for people with severe hip pain and mobility issues caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, or other injuries. Your doctor will evaluate your specific condition and determine if an artificial hip is the best option for you.
What is the difference between anterior and posterior approaches?
Anterior and posterior approaches are two different surgical techniques used for hip replacement surgery. The anterior approach involves accessing the hip joint from the front, while the posterior approach involves accessing it from the back. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and your doctor will determine which is best for you based on your individual needs.
