Direct Anterior Hip Replacement or Another Approach? Comparing Hip Surgery Options in Hervey Bay and Maryborough

Fraser Coast Orthopaedics
Aug 1
2 min read

Several surgical approaches can be used to perform a total hip replacement. These include the direct anterior, direct superior, posterior and lateral approaches. Each approach reaches the hip joint from a different direction. The choice of approach should be discussed with your surgeon based on your anatomy, diagnosis and surgical requirements.

Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement

The direct anterior approach hip replacement, or DAA, accesses the hip from the front. It uses an interval between the main muscles at the front of your thigh. Some smaller muscles or tendons may need to be cut to safely access and prepare the thigh bone during surgery.

Direct Superior Hip Replacement Approach

The direct superior approach accesses the hip through the upper buttock region. It is a variation of the posterior approach designed to preserve selected muscles and tendons around the back and side of the hip.

Posterior Hip Replacement Approach

The posterior approach accesses the hip joint from the back. It provides broad access to the hip socket and thigh bone and can be used for routine and complex hip replacement surgery.

Lateral Hip Replacement Approach

The lateral approach reaches the hip joint from the side. It involves working through part of the hip abductor mechanism to access the joint. These tissues are repaired during surgery.

Choosing a Hip Replacement Approach in Hervey Bay or Maryborough

There is no single hip replacement approach that is appropriate for every patient.

The most suitable treatment and or approach option is best discussed with your treating surgeon after reviewing your symptoms, examination findings, imaging, anatomy, and individual circumstances.

There are several surgical approaches to the hip, including direct anterior, direct superior, posterior and lateral approaches. Each reaches the hip joint from a different direction. To discuss your hip pain, symptoms and treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Aidan Cleary at Fraser Coast Orthopaedics in Hervey Bay or Maryborough.

Dr Aidan Cleary from Fraser Coast Orthopaedics performs hip replacement surgery for selected patients from Hervey Bay, Maryborough and the wider Fraser Coast region. To discuss your hip pain please contact Fraser Coast Orthopaedics to arrange an appointment.