Direct anterior approach vs posterolateral approach for total hip arthroplasty: our early experience

Objective. The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a surgical procedure gaining increasing popularity among hip surgeons in the last decade, even for surgeons previously accustomed to other surgical approaches. This study aimed to analyze the first cases of direct anterior approach THAs in a single institution, performed by skilled surgeons accustomed to the postero-lateral approach. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 40 THA (38 patients) performed in our institution for primary arthritis, between December 1st 2019, and December 1st 2020. Patients were matched for age, gender, BMI and comorbidities. A matched pair analysis was performed. Results. The two groups had no statistically significant differences in hospitalization time, six-month patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs), and radiographic measurements. However, a significant difference was observed regarding surgical timing. Conclusions. The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty is a safe and feasible technique even in the early experiences.