Dr. Abhijit Agashe, a joint replacement surgeon at Sahyadri Hospital, discusses hip joint pain and advancements in hip replacement surgery, particularly the Direct Anterior Approach. He explains how issues in the hip joint, especially following COVID-19, are becoming more common, often due to a condition called Avascular Necrosis (AVN).
Causes Of Hip Joint Issues
Post-COVID-19, a notable rise in hip joint issues has been observed. The condition, known as Avascular Necrosis, occurs due to blocked blood vessels, which leads to damage in the hip bone. Apart from COVID-19, AVN can also be caused by:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Long-term steroid use
- Blood disorders like sickle cell anaemia
When Is Hip Replacement Needed?
Hip replacement becomes necessary when:
- X-rays and MRIs reveal advanced damage, classified as Stage Four.
- The hip joint cartilage and bone experience significant wear, causing pain even with minimal movement.
- Daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and sitting cross-legged, become severely painful and difficult.
Young patients, often between the ages of 30 and 50, are especially affected, as AVN limits their mobility and impacts their personal and professional lives.
What Is The Direct Anterior Approach In Hip Replacement?
Dr. Agashe highlights the Direct Anterior Approach, a newer technique with distinct benefits over traditional hip replacement methods. The primary advantages include:
- Minimal Movement Restrictions Post-Surgery: Unlike traditional methods, patients can sit cross-legged, participate in sports, and use Indian-style toilets about three months post-surgery.
- Muscle Preservation: In the Direct Anterior Approach, muscles are not cut but gently pushed aside, allowing access to the hip. This leads to faster recovery and less post-surgical discomfort.
Smaller Incision: Unlike older techniques, which required a large incision of 15–20 cm, the Direct Anterior Approach requires a much smaller incision, reducing scarring and aiding faster healing.
Benefits Of The Direct Anterior Approach
This technique allows patients to resume activities that were once restricted with traditional methods. Patients can walk normally, sit cross-legged, and participate in light sports within months after surgery.
Conclusion
The Direct Anterior Approach is an effective and minimally invasive technique for hip replacement, offering patients a chance to regain their mobility and quality of life. For those with persistent hip pain or AVN, consulting with an orthopaedic specialist can provide valuable insights on the most suitable treatment.
Dr. Shama Shaikh-Surve
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
Contact: +91 88888 22222
Email – ask@sahyadrihospitals.com
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