Thus , while DAA hip arthroplasty can be successfully performed , it is not without complications .
Tackling the learning curve: comparison between the anterior, minimally invasive (Micro-hip®) and the lateral, transgluteal (Bauer) approach for primary total hip replacement
Background and purpose There is still conflicting evidence about the true benefit of minimally invasive ( MI ) techniques in total hip replacement ( THR ) . The aim of this prospect i ve study was to evaluate the safeness of a MI approach during the learning curve of a single surgeon . Second , clinical and radiographic results among the  MI THR group were compared with the results using a st and ard transgluteal ( Bauer ) approach . Methods 86 primary unilateral total hip arthroplasties ( THAs ) through a MI , anterior ( Micro-hip ® ) approach were performed by a single senior surgeon ( ES ) , representing a consecutive series of patients after beginning with the MI technique . Cases were compared to a matched cohort of patients who were treated with a st and ard transgluteal ( Bauer ) approach .  Operation time , incision length , perioperative blood loss , haemoglobin level and blood transfusions were monitored . Complications were documented and followed up 1 year postoperatively . The Harris Hip Score ( HHS ) , range of motion , use of analgetics , the Trendelenburg sign , sensibility of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and the acetabular/femoral component placement as well as potential heterotopic ossifications were analysed in both the groups after 12 months postoperatively . Results 74 MI THR patients and 60 st and ard THR patients were available for the one year follow-up . Operative time was significantly longer in the MI group , reduction in the haemoglobin level during the first 24 h was significant and the length of skin incision was significantly shorter . No significant differences were found for HHS , range of motion , use of analgetics , the Trendelenburg sign , and the acetabular/femoral component placement , heterotopic ossifications and intra- and postoperative complications . Sensibility of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve was affected in three patients in the MI group . Radiographic evaluation revealed no component migration , implant subsidence or radiolucency signs in both the groups . DicussionConsistent with recent meta- analysis we found reduced blood loss , similar clinical /radiographic outcome and similar complication rates compared to st and ard THA . Our study shows , that MI THR is a safe procedure during the learning curve of an experienced surgeon
Thus , while DAA hip arthroplasty can be successfully performed , it is not without complications .