As a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in rapid recovery hip and knee replacement and complex joint replacement surgeries, Dr. Michael Ransone is able to offer EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region patients advanced treatment for hip replacement needs, including anterior approach hip replacement.
When is Hip Replacement Necessary?
The hip is a large, complex joint that is frequently injured through sports, accidents, and aging. It is estimated that about 32 million Americans will see a physician for some form of arthritis pain, including in the hip.
Hip replacement may be necessary when the hip joint is worn or damaged so that your mobility is reduced and you are in pain even while resting.
Hip replacement solutions such as direct anterior hip replacement are used to correct a damaged joint by replacing it with an artificial one made of metal and plastic. This can relieve pain and even restore the hip’s full range of motion.
Conservative, non-surgical treatments are usually tried first, and Dr. Michael Ransone will be happy to guide you through the following options before discussing anterior approach hip replacement:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications
- Physical therapy
- Injections in or around the hip joint
- Weight Loss
- Use of a cane or walker
- Avoiding high impact activities
Surgery recommendations for each person vary depending on the severity of your condition. Dr. Ransone prides himself on developing a customized, comprehensive plan for each individual patient. Ultimately, a consultation with Dr. Ransone enables him to create the best treatment plan to help you heal safely and effectively.
Anterior Vs. Posterior Hip Replacement
Originally, hip replacements required large incisions and a long recovery. Now we use incisions that are half the size of what was previously required. Advances in pain management and surgical techniques have further reduced recovery time, empowering patients to get back to their regular activities.
Hip replacement options typically fall into two categories: mini-posterior approach (MPA) or direct anterior approach (DAA).
In a prospective, randomized study, researchers at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, found that patients who underwent anterior approach hip replacement had objectively faster recovery than patients who had posterior replacements.
How Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Is Different
Many people suffering from arthritis, hip pain, and stiffness can now choose a less invasive procedure, a direct anterior hip replacement. It is one of the least invasive surgical options and is a technique that minimizes pain and time from surgery to recovery.
The anterior approach allows the surgeon to reach the hip joint from the front of the hip as opposed to the lateral (side) or the posterior (back) approach. This way, the hip can be replaced without the detachment of muscle from the pelvis or femur during surgery. Skilled surgeons like Michael Ransone, MD can simply work through the natural interval between the muscles.
Some benefits of an anterior approach hip replacement include:
- Less muscle trauma for patients
- Reduced hospital stay and quicker rehabilitation
- Smaller incision (4 to 5 inches as compared to 10 to 12 inches)
- Faster recovery time
- Reduced pain and tissue healing required
- Reduced risk of dislocation and more rapid return to normal activities (under physician’s supervision, may be immediate)
Whatever surgery Dr. Ransone recommends, a patient-centered approach will be front and center, determining the best course of action optimized for your specific needs. He will be with you throughout the entire process, including your recovery period. He wants to return you to the activities you enjoy, safely and healthily!
To learn more about total hip or knee replacement options, request a consultation with Dr. Michael Ransone or, call us at 984.279.3653.
