Comparison of complications in transtrochanteric and anterolateral approaches in primary total hip arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common procedure for hip joint replacement.
• Historically, the transtrochanteric approach has been widely used.
• Alternative surgical methods, such as the anterolateral approach, have emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the morbidity associated with the transtrochanteric and anterolateral approaches in primary THA.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction and range of motion following these primary THA approaches.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection from 891 patients undergoing primary THA by a single surgeon (1998-2003).
• Utilized a modified SF-36 form for data collection at preoperative, intraoperative, and 3-month postoperative intervals.
• Comparison of outcomes between the transtrochanteric and anterolateral surgical groups.

Main Results:

• The transtrochanteric approach group exhibited higher overall morbidity.
• A greater proportion of patients in the transtrochanteric group reported dissatisfaction with their THA.
• The anterolateral approach group demonstrated a significantly greater range of motion postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• The anterolateral approach may offer advantages over the transtrochanteric approach in primary THA regarding morbidity and patient satisfaction.
• Improved range of motion is a notable benefit observed with the anterolateral approach.
• These findings suggest the anterolateral approach as a potentially favorable alternative for primary total hip arthroplasty.