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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
The Transition to an Anterior-Based Muscle Sparing Approach Improves Early Postoperative Function but is Associated with a Learning Curve
Published on: September 7, 2022
[Minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty via direct anterior approach]
Franz Rachbauer1, Martin Krismer
1Universitätsklinik für Orthopädie, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Osterreich. franz.rachbauer@i-med.ac.at
Objective:
Minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty via direct anterior approach aims at reducing soft-tissue damage, diminishing blood loss and postoperative pain, shortening stay in hospital, accelerating rehabilitation, and keeping scars small.
Indications:
The technique is suitable for primary and secondary osteoarthritis as well as fractures of the femoral neck. Complex distortions of the proximal femur should be exempted.
Contraindications:
Complex malalignment of the proximal femur.
Surgical Technique:
The femoral neck is exposed in the interval between tensor fasciae latae, glutei medius and minimus muscles laterally, and sartorius and rectus femoris muscles medially. After osteotomy of the neck and extraction of the head the acetabulum is reamed to prepare for cup prosthesis. Following peritrochanteric capsulotomy the externally rotated, adducted and elevated femor is broached. Cemented and cementless implants may be used.
Postoperative Management:
The patients are allowed to walk full weight bearing beginning on the 1st postoperative day. As soon as they are able to safely master the transfers and stairs, they are discharged.
Results:
The method is a safe procedure that allows correct placement of acetabular and femoral components. It may be performed in a reasonable time, the blood loss is little. The procedure preserves the muscles and leads to small, cosmetically pleasing scars. Patients usually do not suffer from pronounced pain, rehabilitation is accelerated. They therefore agree in an short postoperative stay in hospital.
