Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed Through Direct Anterior Approach Provides Superior Early Outcome: Results of a Randomized, Prospective Study

Abstract

Studies suggest that total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed through direct anterior (DA) approach has better functional outcomes than other surgical approaches. The immediate to very early outcomes of DA THA are not known. A prospective, randomized study examined the very early outcome of THA performed through DA versus direct lateral approach. The functional outcomes on day 1, day 2, week 6, week 12, 6 months, and 1 year were measured. Patients receiving DA THA had significantly higher functional scores during the early period following surgery. The difference in functional scores leveled out at 6 months.