Minimally Invasive Total Hip Replacement

Background: Limited number of studies in the world literature evaluating outcome of minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty has prevented its widespread acceptance as a standard surgical procedure. Methods: Study was conducted using modified posterior mini incision technique on thirty-eight patients undergoing primary THA for various disorders of hip. Perioperative parameters were compared with forty-five patients operated by conventional anterolateral approach. Results: Mean postoperative score was comparable in both the groups. It was 88 (range 72-97) in the mini incision group, while it was 89 (range 70-97) in the anterolateral group. Mean operative time was less in the mini incision group (62 minutes) as compared to the anterolateral group (84 minutes). Average blood loss in the mini incision group was 550 ml, as compared to 700 ml in the anterolateral group. Return of abductor strength was faster in the mini incision group, with time needed for cane walking being average 7 (20%) days less in the mini incision group. Conclusion: Mini incision posterior approach can decrease operative time, blood loss, and intraoperative complications and hasten rehabilitation.