Hybrid of Smith-Peterson and Watson-Jones minimally invasive direct anterior approach to the hip joint

BackgroundMuscle-sparing techniques, more consistent acetabular component positioning with fluoroscopy guidance, development in implants and instrumentation, expedited rehabilitation, and patients' expectations have led to increased utilization of various direct anterior and anterolateral approaches to the hip joint.Methods and surgical techniqueIn this technical note, we demonstrate for the first time a hybrid modification of traditional Smith-Peterson and Watson-Jones approaches to the hip joint on a standard operating room (OR) table.ConclusionsAs demonstrated in this article, a precise knowledge of anatomy and clear goals in the surgical approach can minimize complications and facilitate visualization and instrumentation placement in the direct anterior approach to the hip joint.

Automated summary

The increased utilization of direct anterior and anterolateral approaches to the hip joint is attributed to muscle-sparing techniques, accurate acetabular component positioning with fluoroscopy guidance, developments in implants and instrumentation, expedited rehabilitation, and patients' expectations. This study demonstrates a hybrid modification of the traditional Smith-Peterson and Watson-Jones approaches on a standard operating room table. Precise anatomical knowledge and clear surgical goals can minimize complications and facilitate visualization and instrumentation placement in the direct anterior approach to the hip joint.