The Anterior-Based Muscle-Sparing Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty

The minimally invasive, anterior-based muscle-sparing (ABMS) approach to total hip arthroplasty (THA) is utilized worldwide in select locations as an effective surgical technique. As the name suggests, it is completely muscle-sparing and touts the benefits of anterior-based surgery, including a lower dislocation rate, quicker return to baseline function, and lower narcotic use than many other surgical approaches. However, there is a paucity of collected information on the technique and research associated with this technique.

This text serves as a compendium of information for those surgeons interested in utilizing this surgical approach as an all-inclusive reference.  As an alternative anterior-based approach to the direct anterior surgical approach, some surgeons may find the technique an improved alternative for anterior hip-based surgery. Opening chapters present the history of the anterolateral approach and how to transition to the ABMS approach, including surgical anatomy. ABMS technique with the patient positioned in both the lateral and supine positions are then presented, including associated video segments. Considerations such as implant selection, fixation, and other tips and tricks are shared, along with comparisons to other approaches, patient-reported outcomes, complications and revision surgery techniques, and rehabilitation strategies.

For  hip surgeons looking to expand their armamentarium of surgical approaches, The Anterior-Based Muscle-Sparing Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty is a terrific resource.

Jeffrey A. Geller, MD, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA

Brian McGrory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tufts University School of Medicine and Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA