Posterior approach for total hip arthroplasty. A study of postoperative course, early results and early complications in 131 cases

We report a consecutive series of 131 total hip arthroplasties using a prosthesis of Brunswik type and a posterior approach to the hip. Special attention is paid to technical details, postoperative course and early complications. The results are compared with those in published studies in which the lateral transtrochanteric approach has been used. Total hip replacement was performed by a team of four persons. This led to a marked decrease in the average operating time (60 minutes). The amount of blood transfused during and after the operation averaged 761 g. The postoperative course was complicated by one wound infection (0.8%). The immediate results regarding pain and walking capacity were good in 83% of the cases. The use of the posterior approach and a highly trained operating team reduced the time required for the operation, the blood loss and the frequency of postoperative complications, and caused less morbidity in the arthritic patients.