TL;DR
- Total hip replacement surgery now involves minimally invasive and robotic methods.
- The Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) reduces muscle disruption and supports early movement.
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programmes help suitable patients return home within a day.
Total hip replacement surgery has evolved through methods that reduce tissue disruption and focus on recovery. These developments have allowed patients to regain mobility sooner and return home earlier than in the past.
How do these methods differ in recovery time and comfort? Read on to find out.
Types of Hip Replacement Techniques in Singapore
Traditional Total Hip Replacement Surgery
If your hip condition is complex or involves severe joint damage, your surgeon may recommend a traditional total hip replacement. This method uses a longer incision, about 15 to 25 cm, along the back or side of the hip. The wider opening gives your surgeon clear access to the joint and surrounding structures.
During the operation, your surgeon detaches some muscles and tissue to reach the joint, removes the damaged bone and cartilage, and replaces them with an implant made of metal, ceramic, or medical-grade plastic.
Traditional total hip replacement surgery remains effective for many patients, but it usually results in a longer recovery period compared with other approaches.
Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement Surgery
If your case is straightforward, a minimally invasive approach may be recommended. Typically, your surgeon will make a smaller incision, typically under 10 cm, to preserve the major muscles around the hip. This helps to limit bleeding and shorten your hospital stay.
While not suitable for all patients, minimally invasive hip surgery is now a standard procedure for primary replacements.
Robotic Hip Replacement Surgery
Some clinics in Singapore also offer robotic-assisted hip replacement surgery, such as at Alps Orthopaedic Centre. Before the procedure, your surgeon takes a 3D scan of the hip joint to plan the size and position of the implant.
During the operation, a robotic arm helps guide your surgeon’s instruments based on the plan. While your surgeon remains in full control at all times, they’ll be able to view data that supports careful implant placement and joint alignment.
Robotic systems are commonly used in cases that require detailed planning or where the bone structure varies from typical anatomy.
Modern Approaches For Hip Replacement Surgery in Singapore
Enhanced Recovery (ERAS) Direct Anterior Approach to Total Hip Replacement
If physiotherapy and medication no longer manage your symptoms, your surgeon may recommend a total hip replacement surgery using the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA), performed under the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol.
With this method, your surgeon reaches the joint from the front of your hip, working between muscles instead of detaching them. Because the surrounding muscles remain intact, you’ll experience less discomfort and a quicker return to mobility.
Some patients can stand and walk with support on the same day and, if stable, go home within 24 hours.
Is this the right approach for your condition? Schedule an appointment to discuss your options with our orthopaedic team.
Preoperative Preparation, Intraoperative Techniques, and Postoperative Care
The ERAS programme supports you before, during, and after surgery through a structured care pathway.
Before Surgery:
Recovery starts well before surgery. In the weeks leading up to it, your surgeon will review your medical history, order scans or blood tests, and make sure any existing conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, are under control.
You’ll also get advice on nutrition and simple strengthening exercises to prepare your body for recovery.
If you smoke or drink regularly, you’ll be asked to stop at least a few weeks before surgery, since this helps wounds heal faster and lowers your risk of complications.
During Surgery:
On the day of surgery, your anaesthetist will use spinal or regional anaesthesia so you stay comfortable and awake but pain-free.
During the procedure, your surgeon uses medication such as tranexamic acid to limit blood loss and keep your body temperature and hydration stable throughout.
Once the joint is replaced, your incision is closed carefully, and a dressing is applied to protect the wound.
After Surgery:
After surgery, your care team will help you stand, take your first steps, and do light exercises to keep your circulation going. Physiotherapy usually starts the same day or the next morning to help you regain balance, posture, and strength in your new hip.
Before you’re discharged, your surgeon will advise you on how to take care of your wounds, light exercises you can do at home, and activities to avoid.
You’ll also have to schedule follow-up visits so your care team can track your progress and make sure your hip is healing as expected.
Comprehensive Approach and Minimally Invasive Options
The Direct Anterior Approach is part of a broader movement in orthopaedic care toward procedures that minimise tissue handling while maintaining surgical safety. Your surgeon considers your bone structure, muscle strength, and overall health before recommending this or another minimally invasive method.
Faster Recovery (Day Surgery)
With the ERAS pathway, many patients now undergo total hip replacement as a day surgery in Singapore. This means you can go home within 24 hours once you’re able to walk with support, manage your pain, and move safely.
Day surgery reduces hospital stays and allows you to recover in a familiar environment while staying closely connected to your surgical and physiotherapy teams through follow-up visits.
Hip Prosthesis Options in Singapore
A hip replacement surgery involves using artificial components, known as prostheses, to replace the ball and socket of the joint. These parts are designed to move like a natural hip and withstand years of use.
Common Prosthesis Types
- Metal-on-polyethylene: A metal ball and durable plastic socket, used in most cases.
- Ceramic-on-ceramic: A low-friction option often chosen for younger or active individuals.
- Ceramic-on-polyethylene: A combination that balances durability with affordability.
Improved Materials for Longer-Lasting Results
Many implants now also use titanium alloys that integrate with bone and cross-linked polyethene liners that resist wear. With appropriate care and alignment, these hip implants often last 15 to 25 years or more.
Customised Implants
For patients with unique bone structure or previous surgeries, a customised or 3D-printed hip prosthesis can be created. This ensures the components fit your anatomy and support stable movement.
Role of Orthopaedic Specialists in Total Hip Replacement Surgery
At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, total hip replacement surgeries are led by Dr Jerry Chen, who is trained to perform traditional, minimally invasive and robotic-assisted hip surgeries. He specialises in the ERAS approach, focusing on preserving muscle, supporting early mobility, and minimising disruption to surrounding tissue.
At the initial consultation, Dr Chen discusses all your options clearly — explaining what you can expect before, during, and after surgery. He will also align the expected recovery timeline with your lifestyle, so you can prepare for rehabilitation with realistic goals.
For more information, book a consultation with Dr Chen today.
