Hip Replacements Take a Big Step Forward: Anterior Approach Offers Fast Recovery, No Restrictions after Surgery

SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Thanks to surgical techniques and technology pioneered by Joel Matta, M.D., Medical Director of the Hip and Pelvis Institute at the Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, increasing numbers of patients in North America are receiving hip and pelvis surgery that protects tissue, offers faster recovery, allows for more accurate placement of medical implants and reduces post-operation restrictions compared to traditional hip surgery.

In the “anterior approach,” the hip joint is reached from the front of the body. This allows the surgeon to operate through a natural space between the muscles, and eliminates the need to detach muscles from the pelvis or femur—unlike other procedures that take a lateral (side) or posterior (back side) approach to the hip. Since the anterior approach leaves the muscles that provide hip function undisturbed, trauma is greatly reduced and the new hip is immediately stable after surgery.

Anterior approach hip replacement offers patients faster recovery, unrestricted mobility after surgery and far fewer complications such as hip dislocation. Having performed more than 1,700 procedures since he introduced the anterior approach to North America, Dr. Matta is the leading champion and innovator of the anterior approach in North America and the United States.

“The anterior approach is a revolutionary improvement in hip surgery which helps people get back on their feet faster, without restrictions,” Dr. Matta said. “It improves patient satisfaction and health, and saves money by shortening hospitalizations and reducing the risk of future complications.”