In the ever-evolving landscape of orthopedic surgery, technological advancements continue to redefine the possibilities for improved patient outcomes. One such innovation making waves in the field is the integration of robotics into direct anterior hip replacements. This cutting-edge technology is transforming hip replacement with enhanced outcomes for hip replacement recipients.
With the rise of popularity of robotic technology and minimally invasive hip replacement, using the direct anterior approach with robotic assistance can be a match made in heaven for many adults in need of hip replacement.
What is Direct Anterior Hip Replacement?
This minimally invasive surgical approach to hip replacement involves making a small incision on the front of the hip, rather than the side or the back. The surgeon can access the hip joint without cutting or detaching any muscles, tendons, or nerves. By preserving the soft tissues around the hip, benefits include less pain, faster recovery, and better range of motion after the surgery.1
What is Robotic Hip Replacement?
This surgical technique in hip replacement uses a robotic arm and a computerized navigation system to assist the surgeon in performing the operation. The robotic arm holds a surgical tool that can move in multiple directions and angles, while the navigation system provides real-time 3D images of the hip and the surgical site. The surgeon controls the robotic arm and the tool through a console, while viewing the images on a monitor.
Robotic hip replacement has several advantages over conventional hip replacement, and can be used in synergy with the direct anterior approach for optimal results.
Both robotic hip replacement and the direct anterior approach offer benefits. Robotic help preserve bone and tissue loss,2 with direct anterior approach and robotics get higher patient satisfaction rates and improved quality of life outcomes.3 The synergy achieved by combining the direct anterior approach with robotic assistance in hip replacement is emerging as a promising advancement in joint replacement. By integrating the precision offered by robotic technology with the minimally invasive nature of the direct anterior approach, orthopedic surgeons can optimize results for patients undergoing hip replacement, allowing for a rapid recovery and faster return to an active lifestyle.
Dr. Charles Claps is committed to providing the best possible results for his patients using the direct anterior approach with the Mako robot in hip replacement. Dr. Claps is an industry leader in the field of robotic joint replacement, also serving and an educator among orthopedic surgeons across the nation. If you or a loved one suffer from hip pain and are considering hip replacement, contact Dr. Claps for an expert evaluation of your hip condition.
AUTHOR: Charles Claps, DO is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in robotic assisted joint replacement surgery at Resurgens Orthopaedics in Atlanta. Dr. Claps is an industry leader in Mako Robotic Assisted Hip and Knee replacement across Georgia, and an active member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics.