Minimally Invasive Approaches to the Hip

Not all hip replacements are performed the same way. Dr. Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, FAOA, FAAOS uses minimally invasive, muscle-sparing techniques tailored to each patient’s anatomy, helping patients in New York City and Connecticut recover faster and more comfortably.

What Is Minimally Invasive Hip Surgery?

Minimally invasive hip surgery uses smaller incisions and works between or around the muscles surrounding the hip, rather than detaching them. The goal is the same as any hip replacement — removing damaged bone and cartilage and placing a durable implant — with an emphasis on preserving soft tissue and supporting a quicker, less painful recovery.

Three Primary Approaches

• Anterior. Accesses the joint from the front of the thigh, between muscle planes, often supporting less pain and a quicker return to walking.
• Posterior. A widely used, well-studied technique that accesses the joint from the back of the hip with a muscle-sparing repair.
• Anterolateral / Lateral. Accesses the joint from the side, offering strong stability for select anatomies and revision cases.

Dr. Plancher reviews your anatomy, activity level, and surgical history to recommend the approach best suited to your goals — not a one-size-fits-all technique. Many patients who qualify are also candidates for outpatient (same-day) hip replacement.

Why Choose Dr. Plancher

• 30+ years of orthopedic surgical experience in New York City and Connecticut.
• Clinical Professor, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center.
• Recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and Connecticut Top Doctors.
• Concierge, out-of-network care with same-day appointments and 24/7 physician access.

Hip Consultations — New York & Connecticut

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “minimally invasive” mean in hip surgery?

It refers to techniques that use smaller incisions and work between or around muscles rather than cutting through them, which can reduce soft-tissue trauma, blood loss, and post-operative pain.

How does Dr. Plancher choose the right approach?

He reviews your anatomy, imaging, activity level, and any prior hip or spine surgery to recommend the anterior, posterior, or lateral approach best suited to your goals.

Where does Dr. Plancher perform minimally invasive hip surgery?

At his New York City office on Park Avenue and his Connecticut office in Cos Cob, serving patients throughout the New York and Connecticut area.

Ready to Discuss Your Hip Surgery Options?

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, FAOA, FAAOS to learn which minimally invasive approach is right for your hip.