Dr. Steven Louis Performs 100th Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement

HINSDALE, Ill., Jan. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --Dr. Steven Louis, Hinsdale Orthopaedics, is one of a few surgeons in Chicago to have performed 100 hip replacements using the new direct anterior approach that is changing lives for patients with severe hip pain.  

The direct anterior (front) approach is less invasive and painful and allows a quicker recuperation than traditional hip replacement surgery done from the rear or side.  Dr. Louis' extensive background in trauma surgery gives him an edge over other surgeons, because he is familiar with this approach to the hip and to the use of x-ray guidance in assisting surgical care around the hip. The direct anterior approach is minimally invasive and allows him to replace the hip without detaching muscle from the pelvis or femur.  The gluteal muscles, which play a key role in hip function, are less affected than with traditional hip replacement surgery.  Patients return to activities sooner and are pain-free more quickly.    

Jim Graff, 63, Lake-in-the-Hills, recently underwent direct anterior approach hip replacement by Dr. Louis.  Just six weeks post-surgery, he was back to practicing Tai Chi and Chi Kong  -- and back to work as a masseuse..  The best part is that within days he was completely pain-free and flexible after years of discomfort and limited motion from osteoarthritis.  

"I haven't been this limber and comfortable since I was pre-pubescent," Graff explains.  "I'm back to exercising regularly and this was not the case with my first traditional hip replacement on my other side."

Graff's first, traditional hip surgery also left his good leg shorter than the other which made him walk with a limp.  Dr. Louis therefore lengthened his leg as well as replacing one arthritic joint.

"There are many patients like Jim who are perfect candidates for this new procedure because they are in relatively good health and want to get back to an active lifestyle and job as quickly as possible," Dr. Louis explains.  

Dr. Steven Louis is hosting a free seminar to discuss the Direct Anterior Approach to hip replacement surgery on Tuesday, January 25, 7 pm, Good Samaritan Hospital, 3815 Highland Avenue, Downers Grove.  To register: call 1.800.323.8622 with event code 4G78.  

For more information, visit www.hipandtrauma.com.

SOURCE Hinsdale Orthopaedics