Anterior Hip Replacement Surgeon in Fort Myers, Naples, FL
Medical conditions such as arthritis can damage or wear out the articular cartilage covering the hip joint surface and cause inflammation and severe pain in the hip. The condition can be treated by replacing the hip joint through surgery. Matthew C. Sweet M.D. provides expert diagnosis and treatments for hip arthritis including anterior hip replacement surgery in Fort Myers, Naples, FL. Contact Dr. Sweet's office for an appointment or consultation.
What is Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Surgery?
Direct anterior hip replacement is a contemporary approach to performing hip replacement. The incision is in the front of the hip (as opposed to the side or buttock), and it is an intermuscular approach, meaning the surgeon works between muscles, rather than cutting through them or detaching them. This is generally associated with a quicker recovery compared to traditional approaches. Dr. Sweet uses intraoperative fluoroscopy (X-ray) to confirm appropriate implant position. As with any approach to the hip, there are specific risks with the anterior approach, such as numbness over the thigh, fracture risk, and wound healing problems. Dr. Sweet typically performs the vast majority of his primary hip replacements through an anterior approach.
What are the Advantages of Anterior Hip Replacement?
The advantages of anterior hip replacement include:
- Smaller incisions
- Shorter operative time
- Minimal blood loss
- Short hospital stay
- Less postoperative pain
- Minimal soft-tissue trauma
- Less scarring
- Quicker recovery
- Early mobilization
- Less postoperative restrictions
- Quicker return to normal activities
- Lower risk of dislocation
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of hip arthritis or would like to learn more about anterior hip replacement surgery, please contact Matthew C. Sweet M.D., serving the communities of Fort Myers, Estero, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Lehigh Acres, and Naples, FL.
