Hip replacement through a natural muscle interval
The way we reach the hip matters. Dr. Brock Howell uses the direct anterior approach to access the joint through the space between muscles, while preserving the gluteus maximus.
Between the muscles. Not through the gluteus maximus.
The direct anterior approach uses a natural pathway to the hip joint, avoiding the need to split the gluteus maximus. It is a meaningful distinction in how the surgeon reaches the joint—not a promise of identical recovery for every patient.
Between muscles—not through the gluteus maximus
With a traditional posterior approach, the surgeon commonly splits fibers of the gluteus maximus to reach deeper structures. With the direct anterior approach, Dr. Howell approaches the hip from the front, using a natural interval between muscle groups to reach the joint without splitting the gluteus maximus. This is one of the defining features of anterior hip replacement.
Why a muscle-sparing approach matters
Working between muscles helps preserve important soft tissues around the hip. For some patients, the anterior approach may support comfortable early movement and a quicker initial recovery. Long-term outcomes can be excellent with multiple surgical approaches, and recovery varies from person to person.
What happens during surgery?
Through an incision at the front of the hip, the surgeon carefully separates tissue along the natural muscle interval, exposes the joint, removes the arthritic surfaces, and positions the new implants. The technique may still require careful capsular and other soft-tissue releases, depending on the patient.
Getting back to everyday life
Walking often begins soon after surgery. Your recovery plan is tailored to your strength, overall health, and goals. The objective is to help you return to daily activities with less arthritic hip pain.
Is anterior hip replacement right for you?
If hip arthritis is limiting your walking, sleep, or everyday activities, a consultation can help determine whether hip replacement—and the direct anterior approach—makes sense for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is anterior hip replacement right for everyone?
No. Body habitus, anatomy, prior operations, deformity, and other factors may affect approach selection.
How long will my implant last?
Implant longevity varies with age, activity, implant factors, and other variables. Your surgeon can discuss current evidence and long-term surveillance.
Will I need physical therapy?
Rehabilitation is individualized. Walking and home exercises may be sufficient for some patients, while others benefit from supervised therapy.