J Korean Hip Soc.  2011 Jun;23(2):95-102. 10.5371/jkhs.2011.23.2.95.

Anterior Approaches in Hip Surgery

• Kim TY
• Cha SH
• Maidar O
• Lee SS

• KMID: 2190719
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5371/jkhs.2011.23.2.95

Abstract

The Smith-Petersen anterior approach and the Watson-Jones anterolateral approach are the two most renowned anterior approaches for hip surgery. The anterior approach offers several advantages, including a reduced dislocation risk as compared with that associated with the posterior approach. The post-operative dislocation rate after total hip arthroplasty is known to be 2~3 times lower than that of the posterior approach. However, a more extensive skin incision and poor anatomical visualization are some of the disadvantages of the anterior approach. Nevertheless, since this approach preserves the circulation to the femoral head, the ability to perform the anterior approach is imperative for hip surgeons.

Keyword

Anterior approach; Hip

MeSH Terms

Arthroplasty
Dislocations
Head
Hip
Skin

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