Total joint hip replacement is now easier than ever

By choosing Dr. Slattery to perform the direct anterior approach to total hip surgery, patients are more frequently finding themselves walking the same day as surgery.

What makes the direct anterior approach to total hip surgery special?

Unlike the traditional “posterior” method, which requires a surgeon to navigate through several large muscles at the back of the hip, approaching from the front (anterior) part of the hip spares muscles and can greatly decrease recovery time. In addition, the improved positioning of patients during the operation allows Dr. Slattery to x-ray hips during the surgery to ensure proper positioning and length of the artificial hip, something that can’t be done with the traditional method.

Gary Hockett, a recent patient of Dr. Slattery’s, elected to undergo the anterior approach total hip procedure, and is a perfect example of how this surgery can change the course of lives. Mr. Hockett explained that he was walking the first day after surgery and stated “I feel great,” as he was striding down the clinic hallways. He went on to mention that “I haven’t taken a pain pill since the ninth day after surgery.” At two weeks after his operation he was easily getting his life back, and at his six week follow up he was released to ride his horses again. “Now that I’m back to riding horses, I’ve had to start getting that white horse you see in the picture back into shape.” Clearly, Gary is a picture perfect example of how the direct anterior approach to total hip surgery can save your active lifestyle.

Gary Hockett needed a hip surgery procedure that would allow him to quickly get back to his active lifestyle.

With a recovery time often half that of the traditional method, the anterior approach makes elective hip surgery an easier decision to make. Schedule your first appointment with Dr. Slattery at Washington Orthopaedic Center by calling 360-736-2889 today!

-Article by Levi Bale