The purpose of the present report was to compare the early results of a MIS technique and a traditional approach for THA.

Methods: The study population included 80 patients: 40 (GR 1), continuous prospective population operated on through a posterior MIS and 40 ( GR 2) continuous restrospective population operated on through a standard posterior approach. All of the patients were treated by the same surgeon (GA). The average age was 64,9 Years (GR 1) and 64 years (GR2). The BMI was 27 (GR 1) and 26,2 (GR2).

A non cemented ABG II THR was used for every patient. The average length of the incision was 8 cm (GR 1) and 19 cm ( GR 2). The average diameter of the cup was 54 (GR1) and 51 (GR 2) and the size of the stem was 4,6 (GR1) and 4 (GR2).

Results: Per op estimated blood loss was on average 270 ml (GR1) and 370 ml (GR2).

Post op average blood loss in the drains was 335 ml (GR1) and 480 ml (GR2).

The mean hospital and rehabilitation center stay was 19 days ( GR 1) and 26 days (GR2) No infection was observed in the two groups, neither nerve palsy intra operative fracture, non pulmonary embolism. One posterior dislocation was observed in each group.

Lateral abduction angle of the cup on AP radiographs was 44,3° ( GR 1) and 45° ( GR2)

Discussion: Hip arthroplasty can be performed through less invasive exposures. The posterolateral approach is widely used: the modification of the technique with the skin incision length of about 8 cm is possible in most patients. Custom instrumentation is needed to allow visualization and prevent excessive trauma and traction of soft tissues.