Does surgical approach during total hip arthroplasty alter gait recovery during the first year following surgery?

Multiple surgical approaches exist for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Each approach has risks and benefits in regard to complications and changes in postoperative gait. This study examined the effect of three surgical approaches on postoperative gait mechanics. Thirty patients completed a self-selected speed level walking gait assessment preoperatively, 6 weeks, and 1 year after surgery. We found no difference between approaches 1 year following surgery for any study variable. Several differences existed between time points independent of surgical approach. Significant improvement was found in sagittal and frontal plane hip ROM, peak hip extension and adduction angle and moment, the functional measures, walking speed, and the Harris Hip Score. This study suggests that postoperative gait changes are similar for the three analyzed surgical approaches.