Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 28, 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
Anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty conversion of hip fusion
Caroline Scemama1, Vincent Lestrat2, Benoit Combourieu2
1Department of Reconstructive and Orthopaedic Surgery, Raymond Poincaré Hospital (AP-HP), Garches, France. scemamacaroline@gmail.com.
Purpose:
Hip fusion conversion has shown mixed results, in particular a higher rate of failure than primary total hip replacement. Conversion is usually carried out by a lateral approach.
Methods:
We reported a series of 37 hip fusion conversions performed by an anterior approach. Clinical and radiographic outcomes of this unusual approach were reported at eight years of follow up.
Results:
At eight years of follow up, survivorship was 86. 6 % (IC 95 %: 62.4-95.7 %). Sixteen patients reported good relief of the pre-operative back spine or knee pain. PMA score was significantly improved. Two implant aseptic loosenings needing revision surgery were reported.
Conclusion:
The anterior approach seemed to be as good as the other hip approaches for hip fusion conversion to total hip replacement.
