The minimal posterior (from the back) approach is the most common type of hip replacement surgery.

This minimally invasive technique involves a surgeon making an incision at the back of the hips, close to the buttocks. The incision is usually about five inches. However, it may vary depending on the patient’s body size.

Why Would I Need a Hip Replacement?

An orthopedic surgeon may recommend hip replacement surgery if you have joint damage caused by arthritis. You may also be eligible for hip replacement surgery if you have a hip injury that makes walking or participating in everyday activities difficult.

Who is a Candidate for the Minimal Posterior Approach?

Most patients are candidates for the posterior approach. However, surgeons evaluate each case on an individual basis.

What are the Advantages of the Minimal Posterior Approach?

The main advantage of the posterior approach is that it gives the surgeon a better view of the hip joint. This allows them to complete the procedure faster. The posterior approach is also the first approach most surgeons learn to perform.

How Do Surgeons Perform the Minimal Posterior Approach?

While you lay on your side on a padded table, your surgeon will make an incision at the back of your hips close to your buttocks.

When the surgeon accesses your hip, they remove damaged cartilage and bone, leaving healthy bone intact. Next, they will position new implants. During a total hip replacement, the surgeon will implant a replacement socket into the pelvic bone and a metal stem into the top of the thigh bone. They will then top the stem with a replacement ball. The procedure usually takes between one to two hours.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Hip Replacement Surgery?

Recovery from hip replacement surgery varies from person to person. Full recovery can take between two to eight weeks.

Why Choose UHealth?

Innovating hip replacement surgery. UHealth is the first hospital in Florida to use mixed reality and augmented reality for hip replacement surgery. This innovative technology reduces operation time and increases accuracy for a smooth recovery.

Specialized joint replacement care. When you receive a joint replacement at the University of Miami Health System, your surgeon is an expert in the field who dedicates their time to performing joint replacement procedures exclusively. Our experienced physicians perform thousands of primary and complex joint replacements each year, using the latest advances in technology like minimally invasive hip replacement techniques and patient-specific knee replacements. You can rely on their skills to relieve your joint pain and get you back to activities you love.

Research. The Department of Orthopaedics has been focused on improving health and mobility for its patients for more than 35 years, and it will continue to advance that mission, through research and education, for the next century and beyond. The division of Joint Replacement continues to lead a rapidly growing team of medical students, physicians, and scientists that aim to transform orthopaedic medicine, ensuring our patients enjoy healthier, more active lives, free from debilitating pain throughout impactful research.