Posterior/Anterior/Lateral approaches - what do these terms actually mean

Bones, joints and muscles
1

I have noticed on this forum that we all casually throw these terms about and yet after looking at some websites, I'm not too sure that I actually know what they actually mean.

For example, I had the posterior approach which I thought would mean that I would have a scar on my bottom (on the bit that you sit on to be precise).  Well I don't, the scar is still on the side of my leg, curving at the top towards my bottom. 

So what does the term posterior approach actually mean.  Posterior to what? I think I have now worked it out, but would be most interested in other peoples understandings of the terms.

2

It means further away. Like nearer the buttock. Anterior would be nearer the forefront.

3

I've had the anterior approach, which means my scar runs down the front of my thigh about 6/7 inches.

4

Hi

Oh I am glad someone has mentioned this, as I have also been a bit mistified regarding Abbreviations . All of them you have mentioned Im am not sure what they all mean ! Doh!

 

5

I had Anterior, on front of thigh going up and down from the crease where you sit 3inches.

6

Prostier is the going thru the butt , it suspto be less complications but longer recovery, more restrictions. Lateral is the side approach . I do hear this much . Anterior is the groin area less scar and Very little restriction high complications with nerve damage  . I had a complications with the prostier aproach with the femoral nerve .. Any aproach their is a risk no one is excempt so do think that .. Any hip replacement please research nerve damage . It's serious 

7

There are many excellent discussions on this - just Google total hip replacement or look at Rocketman's layman's guide to thr - he has great explanations of most terms and much adevice about common isues and symptoms that we encounter. Look for thr (dot) org (dot) uk - we cannot show a direct link so please replace the dot with .

The surgical approach is more than just the location of the incision - it also determines whether and which muscles and other connective tissues are cut, moved, stretched and how the old hip is removed and new one inserted. There are also choices regarding the type of implants used, and whether they are cemented or not. It is beter to read a polished description than for me to attempt anything further.

L

8

Medical jargon

so Posterior is to the rear, Anterior to the front, lateral to the side.

Also Distal = Distant , so Distal femur = the knee end of the femur

Proximal = nearest so Proximal femur = the hip end of the femur

Graham

9

Well done in bringing that up, I have just added them into my website for everyone else.

10

Further away from what though?

11

I had posterior approach but the scar is on the side of my leg on not on bum. 

I suppose my question is posterior/anterior/lateral to what?

12

My take is Anterior, less cutting muscle and incision alone being smaller.  Lot more restrictions with Posterior method. Out of hospital in 24 hours from admission. Needed about half strength pain meds offered.

Home therepy worst part. Goals from therapists set too high. Caused small set backs not necessary. Very Happy. 

13

Chloe,

I have included this in the website (19 Technicalities), also a special 'hippy humour' section in page 13 following one of your excellent posts!

Graham