Comparing the Clinical Effects of Posterior Approach Versus Lateral Approach in Osteoarthritis Patients With a THA

The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical outcome of the two different, but widely used, surgical approaches (Posterior approach and Lateral approach) of primary total hip arthroplasty in patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis. This study is divided into one main study and two sub-studies. The main study investigates the patient-reported outcome measures (questionnaire) within the first year post surgery. The two sub-studies investigate; i) the level of physical function and pain within the first 3 month after surgery, and ii) investigate the potential difference the two approaches have on gait-patterns and maximal isometric hip-muscle-strength, within the first year after surgery. Both approaches are described with potential drawbacks. Posterior approach has a higher risk of dislocation of the prostheses and revision due to dislocation compared with Lateral approach. Contrary, Lateral approach is described with the potential drawbacks of pain, lower physical function, gait abnormalities and muscle weakness, leading to less satisfied patients. However, according to a Cochrane analysis from 2004 concludes, more investigation is needed to determine the extent of differences.