Portal Assisted Total Hip
AnteriorPATH
Anterior PATH represents an advancement of the anterior total hip approach. Dr. Assini and five other surgeons in the US and Canada designed this technique and created specialized instrumentation for performing total hip arthroplasty.
Why AnteriorPATH?
The method combines anterior hip replacement benefits while addressing traditional complications like wound healing issues, nerve pain, and component malalignment. Standard anterior hip replacement has been used for approximately 25 years. The AnteriorPATH technique relocates the incision to the groin area, creating a smaller wound that heals faster and allows better visualization through a portal, minimizing soft tissue damage.
How It Works
AnteriorPATH employs a specialized instrument to insert a small cannula through a 1cm thigh incision. This cannula serves as a portal to access the hip joint, permitting the main surgical incision to be placed in the groin's flexion crease — a "bikini" incision location. This positioning promotes faster healing, reduces nerve injury risk, and improves component positioning for better pain relief and function.
Dr. Assini's Experience
Over 95% of Dr. Assini's total hip procedures utilize AnteriorPATH. The technique debuted in 2019 and has been adopted by surgeons trained by Dr. Assini and the other designing surgeons across North America and Europe.
Ongoing Research
The surgical team is conducting a multicenter trial to document and publish patient benefits. Dr. Assini is leading an international multi-site trial looking at how this novel technique compares to more traditional techniques.
In the Press
- AnteriorPATH Live Surgical Video with Dr. Joseph AssiniMicroPort Orthopedics
- One of First Hospitals in the Nation to Offer Innovative Hip Replacement Surgical TechniqueBenzinga / Swedish Medical Center
- Colorado Hospital 1st in State to Offer Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement TechniqueBecker's Spine Review
- Innovative Total Hip Replacement Surgery Means Speedier Recovery, Smaller ScarCBS Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is AnteriorPATH?
- AnteriorPATH (Portal Assisted Total Hip) is a minimally invasive hip replacement technique co-developed by Dr. Assini that uses a small portal incision and a "bikini" incision in the groin crease for faster healing and reduced nerve injury risk.
- How is it different from standard anterior hip replacement?
- The main difference is the incision location and portal access. AnteriorPATH relocates the incision to the groin area and uses a 1cm portal for improved visualization, resulting in a smaller wound, faster healing, and better component positioning.
- Am I a candidate for AnteriorPATH?
- Most patients who are candidates for traditional hip replacement may be candidates for AnteriorPATH. Dr. Assini evaluates each patient individually. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation.
- What is the recovery time?
- Many patients are able to go home the same day as surgery. Recovery times vary by individual, but the AnteriorPATH technique is designed for rapid recovery with less soft tissue damage than traditional approaches.
Ready to take the next step?
Ask about an appointment with Dr. Assini — his team will guide you from there.