Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

09:51
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
Process optimized minimally invasive total hip replacement
Philipp Gebel1, Markus Oszwald, Bernd Ishaque
1Department of Orthopaedics, Hospital of Wallis/Brig, Switzerland;
Orthopedic Reviews
|May 12, 2012
Summary
This study shows that a minimally invasive direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip replacement (THR) using specialized equipment yields excellent clinical outcomes and accurate implant positioning. The technique resulted in a significant improvement in patient-reported hip function and a low complication rate.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Total hip replacement (THR) is a common procedure for hip joint issues.
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques aim to reduce patient trauma and improve recovery.
- The direct anterior approach (DAA) is one such technique gaining popularity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze a novel technique combining the direct anterior approach (DAA) with a leg positioner (Rotex-Table) and a modified retractor system (Condor) for total hip replacement (THR).
- To evaluate the operational data, radiological outcomes, and clinical results (Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score - HOOS) of the first 100 primary THR surgeries performed using this new concept.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective evaluation of 100 primary total hip replacement (THR) surgeries performed between 2009 and 2010.
- Standardized surgical technique incorporating navigation, the Rotex-Table leg positioner, and the Condor retractor system.
- Assessment of operative time, blood loss, intra-operative and post-operative complications, Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), cup inclination, and leg length discrepancy.
Main Results:
- Average surgery time was 80 minutes with an average blood loss of 511.5 mL.
- Post-operative complication rate was 6% with no intra-operative complications.
- Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) improved from 43 pre-operatively to 90 at 3 months post-surgery.
- Radiological analysis showed an average cup inclination of 43° and 99% of patients had leg length discrepancy within +/- 5 mm.
Conclusions:
- The combined minimally invasive direct anterior approach (DAA) with the Rotex-Table and Condor retractor system provides excellent clinical results for total hip replacement (THR).
- This technique demonstrates a low complication rate and achieves accurate implant positioning.
- The presented method is efficient, potentially saving manpower while delivering high-quality patient outcomes.