Thanks to a new, minimally invasive procedure and a
technologically advanced surgical table for hip
replacement now available at Grossmont Hospital, people
suffering with arthritis, hip pain and stiffness can opt
for surgery that results in less pain and a speedier
recovery than from traditional hip replacement.

The anterior approach, as it is known, allows the surgeon
to reach the hip joint from the from of the hip, opposed
to the lateral (side) and posterior (back) approach. This
way, the hip can be replaced without detachment of muscle
or tendon from the pelvis or femur during surgery, a
luxary made possible by a specialized table.

Besides less muscle trauma, other benefits of the anterior
approach include a small incision - 3 to 4 inches - along
with faster recovery, reduced pain, and more rapid return
to normal activities.  Additionally, there is a decrease
in the risk of dislocation and leg length discrepancy, 2
complicatios of great concern to all orthopaedic surgeons
using the posterior approach.

Grossmont Hospital began the anterior approach in December
and the results have been very positive.  "We're seen
remarkable outcomes and satisfaction from patients who
have had the procedure, saind orthopaedic surgeon Peter
Hanson, M.D., who performed the 1st procedure.  "One of my
patients took me fishing on her boat in less than 2 weeks.
When we help patients get back on their feet and to their
regular routine as quickly as possible, it's a good thing."

Clinicians are also singing the procedure's praises.
"Therapists and nurses are very happy with it, as there are
no "hip precautions" or abductor pillows. These are
physical limitations placed on patients to prevent hip
dislocations with the posterior approach, but they make it
harder for the patient to obtain independence."

Dr. Hanson performed the procedure using the Hana Hip and
Knee Arthroplasty Table, a surgical table designed
exclusively for hip and knee replacement.

Larry Bryan, a Grossmont patient, is a walking billboard
for the new procedure.  He is a semi-retired truck driver
who keeps active with his family, gardening and dogs.  He
had traditional hip replacement in October, then underwent
the anterior approach for his other hip in December.  "The
difference in pain and recovery was like night and day for
me," Bryan said.  "After my 2nd surgery, I was walking
sooner and back to driving my truck within 4 weeks."

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