Anterior Hip Replacement in Scottsdale Arizona- Stuart Kozinn MD www.Scottsdalejointcenter.com

Anterior Hip Replacement

Anterior Hip replacement surgery allows the surgeon to reach the hip joint from the front of the hip.  The hip can be replaced in this manner without detachment of muscle from the femur or pelvis by working through the natural interval between muscles.  The gluteal muscles which are most important for hip function are left undisturbed from this procedure and thus do not require a lengthy recovery process. Immediately following surgery, patients are able to bend their hip freely and bear full weight, resulting in a rapid return to pre-operation function.   Dr. Stuart Kozinn has significant expertise in performing the Anterior Hip Replacement at Scottsdale Healthcare - Osborn's Total Joint Center.  Not every patient is a good candidate, but most are. Very large muscular males are more difficult to do this way, and Dr. Kozinn will explain these issues to you when you come in for a consultation. The most exciting part of the procedure is how "fast" patients are up walking, and how much "less" pain most appear to have immediately after.(We have had some patients walking in the recovery room!)  It is possible for a highly motivated individual to "go home" the same day as surgery! However, most stay in the hospital for a day or two to take advantage of the "nursing help" and onsite physical therapy.  The surgery is done under general or spinal anesthesia (patient choice), and the procedure is facilitated by using a special "traction table" that positions the hip joint in the exact position necessary to create the spaces in the bones needed to house the implants.  An X-ray machine (flouroscope) is used to confirm the exact position of the implants.  (This also greatly helps regulate the final leg length of the limb, as both hips are seen on the X-ray for comparison at the same time) . Another unique advantage of the anterior approach, is the increased "stability" of the hip.  it is possible, but MUCH more difficult to dislocate the anterior total hip because it is inserted under traction. When the normal muscle tension is then restored, the muscles "pull" the hip together.  Therefore, there is no need for special pillows between the legs, or significant limitations on activities early on, like there is with other approaches.  Patients particularly like to get back to work and travel earlier.
Our experience with this "new" procedure has been very positive, and Dr. Kozinn is happy to discuss it with you in person.  It is important to note that all surgical procedures can have unforseen complications, sometimes involvong medical issues.  A full discussion of the "risks, bemefits, and alternatives" is always tailored to each unique individual.  We ask you to see your medical doctors before any surgery is done to maximize your fitness for anesthesia and the procedure