Medically Reviewed by Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edinburgh)
If you are considering hip surgery, you may feel anxious about more than just the procedure itself. How much pain will there be? How long will it take before you can walk comfortably again or return to the activities you enjoy? It is completely natural to feel uncertain about the recovery process.
The good news is that advances in surgical techniques are helping to make recovery more manageable. The direct anterior approach (DAA) is a muscle-sparing method that allows surgeons to access the hip joint without cutting through major muscle groups. By working between natural muscle planes, this approach is designed to reduce trauma to the body and support a more comfortable, efficient recovery.
Hip replacement surgery is a common procedure used to relieve pain and restore mobility when the joint is damaged by conditions such as hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or hip fractures and other traumatic injuries.
Traditionally, surgeons access the hip by cutting through muscles and soft tissue to reach the joint, which can contribute to post-operative pain and a longer recovery.
Muscle-sparing hip surgery, on the other hand, takes a different approach. Instead of cutting through major muscles, the surgeon works between natural gaps in the muscle tissue to reach the hip joint, helping preserve structures that are important for movement and stability.
The direct anterior approach (DAA) accesses the hip joint from the front (anterior) of the body, rather than the side or back. This positioning allows the surgeon to work through a natural space between muscles, instead of cutting or detaching them.
During the procedure, a small incision is made at the front of the hip. Specialised instruments are then used to gently move muscles aside, providing a clear path to the joint. In some cases, surgeons may also use advanced imaging or a specialised operating table to improve precision and alignment.
Because the surrounding muscles and tendons are preserved, the body experiences less disruption overall. This is why the DAA is considered a muscle-sparing approach and is often described as minimally invasive compared to more traditional methods.
One of the main advantages of the DAA is its potential to make recovery more manageable. By preserving major muscles, the body experiences less overall disruption after surgery. This reduced impact on surrounding tissues can translate into several potential benefits for patients:
While the DAA offers several potential benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Like all surgical approaches, it has its own considerations and is not always the best option for every patient.
Whether the direct anterior approach is suitable for you depends on several factors, including:
It is also important to consider the experience of the surgeon. The DAA is a specialised technique that requires specific training and has a recognised learning curve, which can influence both outcomes and recovery. A thorough assessment by an orthopaedic specialist can help determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on your individual needs and condition.
Advances such as the direct anterior approach (DAA) are reshaping expectations for hip replacement surgery, with a focus on muscle preservation and smoother recovery. However, not every approach is suitable for every patient. Understanding your options is an important step towards achieving better outcomes, and speaking with an experienced orthopaedic specialist can help you decide the most appropriate path forward.
At Arete Orthopaedic Centre, we focus on providing personalised, minimally invasive orthopaedic care to support better recovery and long-term mobility. Dr Wang Lushun brings over two decades of medical experience, including experience in muscle-sparing techniques like the DAA, helping patients return to a more active, comfortable lifestyle. For more information on the procedure or to assess your suitability, contact our clinic to arrange for a consultation with our specialist.
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient's condition.
Most patients will use crutches or a walker for a short period after surgery to support balance and reduce strain on the hip. Because the DAA is muscle-sparing, many patients are able to walk sooner and may transition to a cane or no walking aid within a few weeks, depending on their recovery progress.
The incision is usually smaller and located at the front of the hip, which may result in a less noticeable scar compared to traditional approaches.
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
With over 20 years of experience, Dr Wang Lushun is an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in treating a wide range of sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. He has in-depth experience in minimally invasive surgery and advanced robotic surgery. Dr Wang provides orthopaedic care to athletes and everyday individuals throughout their journey to recovery.
