Modified Posterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

This paper reviews the posterior approach to total hip arthroplasty and introduces the modified short external rotator muscle saving posterior approach, which enhances hip stability after total hip replacement arthroplasty. In total hip replacement arthroplasty, dislocation is the most common early complication. Especially in the posterior approach, dislocation is more common than in the anterior or lateral approach to the hip. However, preservation or meticulous repair of the short rotator could reduce the incidence of posterior hip dislocation after total hip replacement arthroplasty. With a brief review of the posterior approach to the hip, we introduce the short external rotater muscle saving modified posterior approach to total hip arthroplasty.