Direct anterior approach for revision total hip arthroplasty

Revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be successfully performed through the direct anterior (DA) approach. Patient positioning, the surgical approach and specific instruments are important for obtaining adequate exposure. Acetabular exposure can be facilitated by capsular release and correct placement of retractors. Distal and proximal extension of the incision, as well as a femoral extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO) can be performed to increase femoral exposure. The purposes of this article are to describe the DA approach, provide surgical techniques for revision THA through this approach, and describe the indications, contraindications and complications of this approach.