At MD West ONE, hip replacement has evolved. Our surgeons offer the direct anterior approach, a modern technique designed to reduce muscle disruption and support a faster return to the activities that matter most. Dr. Blake Bodendorfer and Dr. Todd Sekundiak both perform direct anterior hip replacement, combining advanced surgical techniques with a patient-focused approach to care.

What is a direct anterior approach to hip replacement surgery?

Direct Anterior Hip Replacement is a minimally invasive hip surgery to replace the hip joint without cutting through any muscles or tendons. Traditional hip replacement involves cutting major muscles to access the hip joint. Normally, after a traditional hip replacement, your surgeon would give you instructions on hip precautions to allow the cut muscles to heal.

However, for Anterior Hip Replacement patients, hip precautions are not necessary as no muscles are cut.

Advantages of both anterior hip replacements include:

• Less postoperative pain
• Minimal soft-tissue trauma
• Smaller incision
• Less scarring
• Minimal blood loss
• Shorter operative time
• Quicker recovery
• Early mobilization
• Less postoperative restrictions
• Quicker return to normal activities
• Short hospital stay

How Anterior Hip Surgery Works: 

During surgery:

• The damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint
• A new artificial joint is placed to restore smooth movement
• The surgeon works through a small incision at the front of the hip
• Muscles are gently moved aside rather than cut

Because key muscles are preserved, many patients experience a more efficient recovery compared to traditional techniques.

Who Is a Candidate?

Direct anterior hip replacement may be recommended for patients experiencing:

• Hip arthritis Joint degeneration
• Chronic hip pain that limits daily activity
• Reduced mobility or stiffness

Your surgeon will evaluate your condition, anatomy, and goals to determine if this approach is right for you.