[ANTERIOR APPROACH FOR TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY - THE PREFERRED APPROACH OR A PASSING TREND?]

Both the direct and anterior approach (DAA) for total hip replacement (THR) surgery have gained much popularity in recent years. The suggested benefits of the muscle-sparing and nerve-sparing approach which could lead to a faster and easier recovery process, have led to an increase in the prevalence of the anterior approach in THR. These potential benefits have drawn the attention of both orthopaedic surgeons as well as patients as a faster return to their active lifestyle. While the potential advantages and benefits of the DAA for THR are obvious, several disadvantages have been highlighted over the years including technical pitfalls, a relatively long and steep learning curve and characteristic associated complications. In addition, while there has been a surge in published research involving the DAA in recent years, significant differences in terms of clinical outcomes in the mid and long term have not been evident. The current editorial explores the increasing popularity and utilization of the DAA in THR procedures and the various factors influencing it.