Anterior Hip Replacement from Preparation to Recovery

Hip pain can make everyday activities difficult, from walking and climbing stairs to getting out of a chair or enjoying time with family. When nonsurgical treatments no longer provide enough relief, hip replacement surgery may be an option to help reduce pain and improve mobility.

At Jefferson County Health Center (JCHC), Dr. AJ Friessen offers anterior hip replacement, a surgical approach that accesses the hip joint from the front of the body. This technique allows the surgeon to work between muscles rather than detaching them, which may help some patients experience less pain during early recovery and return to everyday activities sooner.

If you're considering anterior hip replacement, understanding what happens before, during, and after surgery can help you feel more prepared for your procedure and recovery.

Before Surgery: Preparing for Your Hip Replacement

Your journey begins with an orthopedic evaluation. During your appointment, Dr. Friessen will review your symptoms, medical history, and previous treatments. He may also use imaging, such as X-rays, to assess the condition of your hip joint.

If hip replacement is recommended, your healthcare team will guide you through the preparation process and provide instructions based on your individual needs.

Before surgery, you may be asked to:

Complete preoperative testing, such as bloodwork or an electrocardiogram (EKG).
Review your current medications and supplements with your healthcare team.
Follow specific instructions about eating, drinking, and taking medications before surgery.
Prepare your home by removing tripping hazards and keeping frequently used items within easy reach.
Arrange transportation and assistance with everyday activities during the first few days of recovery.

Preparing ahead of time can help make your transition home more comfortable and allow you to focus on healing after surgery.

During Surgery: What Happens During Anterior Hip Replacement?

On the day of your procedure, your healthcare team will help you prepare for surgery and answer any remaining questions. You will also meet with your anesthesia team to discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used.

Anterior hip replacement differs from other hip replacement approaches because the surgeon accesses the hip joint through an incision at the front of the hip rather than the side or back.

During the procedure, Dr. Friessen will:

Make an incision at the front of the hip to access the damaged joint.
Work between the muscles to reach the hip joint.
Remove the damaged portions of the joint and replace them with artificial components.
Check the stability and movement of the new hip joint before closing the incision.

The artificial components are designed to replace the damaged joint surfaces, allowing the hip to move more smoothly.

Because anterior hip replacement generally avoids detaching major muscles to access the joint, some patients may experience less pain during early recovery and regain mobility sooner. However, recovery experiences vary, and Dr. Friessen will determine whether this surgical approach is appropriate for your individual needs.

After Surgery: Your First Steps Toward Recovery

Following surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where your healthcare team will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off.

You may experience some discomfort, swelling, or stiffness around your hip. Your care team will help manage your pain and provide instructions to support your recovery.

Getting Up and Walking

One of the first steps in recovery is beginning to move safely. Many patients are encouraged to stand and begin walking with assistance on the same day as surgery, depending on their individual condition and their surgeon's instructions.

You may initially use a walker or another assistive device to provide stability and support while your hip heals.

Your healthcare team will help you learn how to move safely, including getting in and out of bed, standing from a seated position, and walking.

Returning Home

Some patients may be able to return home the same day as surgery, while others may need additional time in the hospital. Your healthcare team will determine when it is safe for you to return home based on your individual recovery and mobility.

Before leaving the hospital, you will receive instructions on caring for your incision, managing pain and swelling, taking prescribed medications, and safely increasing your activity level.

Your care team will also discuss any recommended exercises, follow-up appointments, and precautions to follow during recovery.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Recovery from anterior hip replacement varies from patient to patient. Your overall health, activity level before surgery, and individual healing process can all influence how quickly you return to your normal activities.

During the first few weeks, you may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness around the surgical area. Walking and recommended exercises can help you gradually regain strength and mobility.

As your recovery progresses, you may begin returning to everyday activities such as walking longer distances, completing household tasks, and enjoying your favorite hobbies.

Some patients may return to certain activities within a few weeks, while others may need several months to regain their strength and mobility.

Your surgeon will provide guidance on when it is safe to resume specific activities, including driving, returning to work, and exercising.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

Following your healthcare team's instructions and allowing your body time to heal are important parts of recovery. To support your recovery:

Follow your surgeon's instructions for walking and gradually increase your activity level.
Complete recommended exercises or physical therapy.
Take medications as prescribed and follow instructions for incision care.
Attend follow-up appointments so your orthopedic team can monitor your healing.
Avoid doing too much too soon, even if you begin feeling better.

Remember that recovery is different for everyone. Your healthcare team will help you develop a plan based on your progress and individual goals.

Personalized Orthopedic Care at JCHC

At Jefferson County Health Center, our orthopedic team understands that every patient's needs and recovery goals are different.

Dr. AJ Friessen provides orthopedic care for patients of all ages, specializing in shoulder, knee, and hip conditions. He offers anterior hip replacement for patients who may benefit from this surgical approach.

From your initial consultation through surgery and recovery, our team is committed to providing personalized care to help you reduce pain, restore mobility, and return to the activities that matter most to you.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If hip pain is affecting your daily activities and nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing enough relief, it may be time to explore your treatment options.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. AJ Friessen to discuss your symptoms and learn whether anterior hip replacement may be an appropriate option for you.

To schedule an appointment, call the JCHC Professional Clinic at 641-469-4204.

Sources

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Osteoarthritis of the Hip

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Total Hip Replacement

Johns Hopkins Medicine. Hip Problems

Johnson & Johnson MedTech. ANTERIOR ADVANTAGE™ Resource Packet