The quest for less invasive surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has garnered much attention recently in the community, as well as media outlets. There are very little data demonstrating the actual differences in these approaches. We are unaware of any information documenting patients’ perceptions of the direct anterior approach (DAA) for THA. The purpose of this study was to collect information regarding patients’ perceptions of the DAA THA.
We surveyed 166 consecutive new patients being evaluated for hip osteoarthritis in our outpatient clinic. Demographic data and their knowledge of the DAA were collected, as well as a number of questions on a 5-item Likert scale.
Forty-six (28%) responded that they were aware of the DAA. Respondents primarily learned about the DAA from friends and family (58%), and healthcare professionals (38%). Respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the DAA is less painful (70%), reduces the amount of time spent on a cane after surgery (70%), damages tissues less (68%), allows patients to more quickly return to work (64%), and allows for shorter hospital stays (62%), compared to other procedures. In addition, 30% felt there is a consensus among surgeons that the DAA is the safest and most effective procedure for THA.
Many people are unaware of the DAA, with a majority of healthcare information being transmitted by friends and family members. The patients’ perceptions are inconsistent with published data about the DAA and are likely influenced by marketing and individuals surrounding them.