Combined anterior and posterior approach to the hip joint in reconstructive and complex arthroplasty

The combined anterior and posterior approach permits access to the front and back of the hip joint for reconstruction and complex arthroplasty, usually without osteotomy of the greater trochanter, with minimal muscle release. There is ease of access to the anterior and posterior capsule, which can be resected under direct vision, thus permitting accurate hemostasis. The entire acetabular rim is exposed for bone grafting as required. The authors review the useful standard approaches and illustrate the combination of the anterior and posterior approaches through a straight lateral incision. Concomitant exploration of the sciatic nerve is demonstrated, as is the osteotomy of the trochanter performed when the ilium superior to the acetabulum must be reconstructed. The utility and limitations of the operation is illustrated by representative cases. This extensive procedure usually can prevent neurologic and vascular compromise and allows excellent observation of the skeletal structures for accurate component alignment.