Direct Anterior Hip Replacement
Hip replacements are one of the most successful operations offered in medicine. There are several approaches to perform this operation and each has certain pros and cons. Direct anterior approach hip replacement (DAA) offers a muscle-sparing total hip replacement, which can expedite recovery and reduce early post-operative pain. Dr. Duff uses an anterior approach to perform total hip replacements in Perth and utilises fluoroscopic navigation to improve accuracy.
Am I ready for a hip replacement?
It is an excellent option for those patients with significant hip arthritis who are troubled in every day activities. Typically patients are ready when they are having sleep disturbances and walking distance is limited by hip pain.
How long will my hip replacement last?
Modern-day hip prostheses are successful and long-lasting. The table below shows the survival of all hip replacements when placed in patients of different ages^. Certain factors such as activity levels and age can influence longevity.
Recovering from total hip replacement
Patients typically spend between 2-3 days in hospital following the procedure. The hip is strong immediately after the procedure so early weight-bearing is possible. Physiotherapy commences the day following the surgery. Activity is reduced for 6-12 weeks to allow soft tissues to heal and the prosthesis to stabilise. Typically, pain is reduced to lower than pre-operative levels by 2 weeks after the procedure. The table below demonstrates patient reported change at 6 months following hip replacement surgery^.
^ Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry
Hip, Knee & Shoulder Arthroplasty