Approach to total hip arthroplasty has been a subject of debate for several years. Current approaches may broadly be divided into posterior based, anterior based and anterolateral approaches. Several modifications of these approaches are also in common use. While a successful hip replacement may be undertaken with any of these approaches, the superiority of any one approach has not been proven.
The aim of this special issue is to present a comprehensive evidence based overview of approaches to total hip arthroplasty with surgeons debating the pros and cons of their chosen approach with data from their own practice, world literature and joint registries. The main approaches that will be discussed and presented with evidence include but not limited to posterior approach, direct superior approach, direct anterior approach and lateral approaches.
This issue will focus on the following key points:
1) What are the main approaches that are in contemporary use for THA?
2) What are the advantages to the surgeon and patient of the approaches?
3) Are there any disadvantages to certain approaches in certain situations?
4) With evolving technology and better ways to document outcomes, will approach be a more common matter of debate?
The special issue will feature a series of (not limited to) editorials, original articles and reviews to consolidate the overall literature and thinking around approaches.
This special issue was published in Arthroplasty.