Author(s) :

Krrish Singh Sardar.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

In the 2000s, new advances in imaging technologies and specialized surgical tables revitalized a 150-year-old method for total hip arthroplasty: the direct anterior approach. This newfound surge in usage of the direct anterior approach challenged the use of the more practiced posterior approach. In fact, studies show that many clinics and surgeons’ websites state that the direct anterior approach is better for its muscle-sparing qualities and shorter recovery times. However, only a small percentage of these sites list the possible risks or cite peer-reviewed journals as evidence for their claims. This paper takes an evidence-based perspective using key factors such as the recovery process, recent use of inflammatory biomarkers, safety, and aggregated cost to evaluate whether the direct anterior approach truly is as effective and safe as these surgeons and clinics claim. Ultimately, the general consensus from current medical literature supports the posterior approach to total hip arthroplasty via consideration of the most important factors.