What is ABMS Hip Replacement?
Hip arthroplasty has been life-changing for countless individuals suffering from debilitating hip pain and limited mobility. Traditionally, the surgical approach to hip arthroplasty involved making an incision on the side or back of the hip, necessitating the cutting and subsequent repair of major muscles. However, recent advancements in surgical techniques have introduced a game-changing approach known as anterior-based muscle-sparing (ABMS) hip replacement. EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region’s expert orthopedic hip surgeon, Dr. Rhett Hallows, specializes in ABMS arthroplasty.
What Is ABMS Hip Replacement?
ABMS hip replacement is an innovative surgical technique that minimizes damage to the surrounding muscles during the hip replacement procedure. Unlike the traditional posterior or lateral approaches, the ABMS technique involves making an incision at the front of the hip, allowing the surgeon to access the joint without cutting major muscles or tendons. By sparing these muscles, ABMS hip replacement aims to minimize trauma, reduce postoperative pain, and expedite recovery.
ABMS hip replacement is a technically challenging procedure and requires specialized training and skills. Therefore, choosing an experienced hip replacement surgeon like Dr. Hallows is crucial.
Differences From Standard Hip Arthroplasty
The primary difference between ABMS hip replacement and standard hip surgery is the surgical approach. As stated, in the traditional approach, surgeons make a large incision on the side or back of the hip, which causes significant damage to the muscles surrounding the hip joint. The damaged muscles need to heal after surgery, requiring a longer recovery period, and the patient’s mobility may be limited during rehabilitation.
On the other hand, ABMS hip replacement is a muscle-sparing procedure that preserves the muscles around the hip joint. The surgeon accesses the hip joint from the front of the body . This approach allows the surgeon to maneuver around the muscles, which can reduce muscle damage, promote faster healing, and reduce the risks of complications in the recovery stage.
Additionally, because surgeons using the ABMS technique do not damage as much of the surrounding muscles, patients may experience less pain after surgery and may require less postoperative pain medication.
Recovery Time
One major benefit of ABMS hip replacement is the ability to recover as an outpatient. Since ABMS is a less invasive, muscle-sparing technique, most patients are able to go home the same day as surgery or after an overnight hospital stay. This outpatient-focused recovery is much faster than traditional hip replacement.
During the first weeks after an outpatient ABMS procedure, patients may experience some normal postoperative soreness, swelling, or bruising around the incision site. Following their orthopedic surgeon’s at-home care instructions is crucial, including medications for pain management, performing recommended physical therapy exercises, and limiting activities to prevent complications.
Many patients report a significant reduction in pain within one to two weeks post-surgery. They can often begin walking with assistance from crutches or a walker within the first few days. As the body heals, patients can gradually increase physical activity under their doctor’s supervision, like challenging muscle-strengthening exercises, to restore mobility and reduce overall recovery time after their outpatient ABMS hip replacement.
ABMS Hip Replacement Candidate
The innovative ABMS hip replacement procedure may be an option for patients experiencing hip joint pain, reduced mobility, and other symptoms. Doctors determine patient candidacy for hip replacement based on several general criteria:
- Age and activity level, as more active, younger patients may benefit more from ABMS versus traditional replacement. However, patients of all ages are candidates for ABMS.
- Overall health status, verified through medical evaluations. Being in good health pre-surgery supports better surgical outcomes and recovery.
- Hip joint condition diagnosis, such as arthritis or deterioration causing dysfunction. ABMS aims to restore mobility in these cases.
- Clearance from a primary care doctor and other providers, ensuring the patient is healthy enough for surgery.
- Commitment to crucial aftercare like physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and activity restrictions during early recovery. This dedication is vital.
The healthier the patient going into an ABMS hip replacement, the better the likely surgical results and recovery experience. However, factors like age and precise diagnoses are considered individually for each patient alongside their specific needs. Doctors help determine if innovative ABMS may be the best option for regaining mobility and quality of life.
Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better.
ABMS hip replacement is a groundbreaking technique that has revolutionized the field of hip arthroplasty. By minimizing muscle damage and trauma, ABMS hip replacement offers the potential for reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and improved patient outcomes. To learn more about ABMS arthroplasty, request a consultation with Dr. Hallows or call us at 919-220-5255.
