Total Hip Arthroplasty via Bikini

Key Concepts

The traditional surgical approach to total hip replacement involves a large incision with extensive tissue exposure in order to gain access to the hip joint.

In the minimally invasive anterior approach through the bikini incision, it is possible, by

the same procedure through a smaller (6-10 cm) incision in the anterior surface of the hip, continuing the groin crease. This approach is made without cutting or disinserting important muscles of the hip (they are only deviated), which reduces postoperative limitations, blood loss and pain.

When performed by a specialised team, this approach has great advantages for recovery.

Why choose the minimally invasive anterior approach?

– Smaller incision

– Avoids cutting important muscles in the hip

– Less blood loss

– Less postoperative pain

– Fewer post-operative restrictions

– Faster recovery

– Less risk of hip dislocation

What is the expected recovery time?

Walking using a loaded cane on the operated limb for the first 24 hours.

– No limitations in the mobilization of the hip (no need to avoid crossing the leg or

toilet seat lifts)

– Hospitalisation for 2-3 days

– Use of crutches for the first 2 weeks

– Can drive and carry out daily tasks at 4 weeks

– Physiotherapy and rehabilitation programme starts in first week and lasts

8-12 weeks

– Full recovery after 3-4 months

What are the post-operative recommendations and care?

Our team uses an analgesic approach without opiates that includes an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic. We prevent thromboembolism with elastic stockings and 1 injection daily for 4 weeks.

Will I be left with a scar?

In the bikini line, the incision is smaller, about 6-10 cm in the continuation of the groin crease. The closure is performed with absorbable intradermal suture and biological glue, and no stitches need to be removed. After healing, a very satisfactory aesthetic result is achieved, much better than with classical approaches.

How long does my hip prosthesis last?

According to data from arthroplasty registers, 80% of total hip replacements last at least 15-20 years. Newer prostheses with ceramic implants have a potentially longer life span due to their low wear.

Can I go back to sports after surgery?

There is little scientific literature on the type of sport allowed after a hip replacement. Most recommendations are not based on objective data. Usually only low-impact sports such as swimming, golf, cycling, hiking, etc. are allowed.

It is not clear whether wear of the prosthesis increases with high-impact activities, especially with low-wear implants.

Our team advocates an approach that focuses on the individual needs of each patient. Provided there is adequate muscle preparation, we allow high-impact or amplitude sports such as skiing, karate, kickboxing, yoga, football, paddle, tennis, etc.

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