As people age or experience extensive overuse of their bodies from sports or similar activities, their joints can start to wear. As a result, arthritis and joint damage can inhibit movement, affecting the quality of life. People's hips are especially susceptible to such damage. Older people tend to come to mind when bad hips are mentioned, but younger folks can suffer hip and similar joint pain as well.
Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery
Traditional hip replacement surgery can be somewhat invasive, with a long recovery time and a chance of complications. There is an alternative, however, especially for younger people in need of hip replacements. That alternative is known as anterior hip replacement surgery. Anterior hip replacement is less invasive than the traditional posterior approach. Rather than start the procedure from the rear of the hip, anterior hip replacement comes in from the front. There's less muscle and connective tissue in the front of the hip, so the procedure is less invasive. The muscles are also pushed aside instead of cut, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications. That means reduced time in the hospital and less physical therapy to get back to the active lifestyle people enjoyed before needing the anterior hip replacement.
Reduced Risks
Though less invasive than traditional hip replacement surgery, there are still risks involved. The potential for hip dislocation remains, though it's less likely with anterior hip replacement. Muscle damage and bleeding are also possible.
Physical therapy will, of course, remain part of the post-operative recovery process, even if it goes faster than with more traditional forms of hip replacement surgery. Also, this surgery isn't for everyone who needs a replaced hip. Though most people can take advantage of the anterior hip replacement method, overweight patients might have trouble. Rare degenerative hip issues can also prevent the use of the anterior hip replacement method.
A Better Method
Generally, though, anterior hip replacement is the best method available for those in need of such surgeries. It's less invasive and involves a faster recovery time. That means those who undergo anterior hip replacement surgery can get back to enjoying the active life they had before the damage and wear that created the need for the surgery in the first place. Those who need a new hip should consult a professional to see if they are a good fit for anterior hip replacement surgery.
Orthopedic Surgeon
Are you experiencing chronic hip pain? Do you have decreased mobility? Then, anterior hip replacement surgery may be the answer. A consultation with Dr. Dan Albright, an orthopedic surgeon in Raleigh, NC, can provide the answers to all your questions. Contact our office today at 919-863-6808.
