A randomised trial comparing spatio-temporal gait parameters after total hip arthroplasty between the direct anterior and direct lateral surgical approaches

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78 patients scheduled for total hip arthroplasty were randomized to the surgery performed through either the direct anterior approach or the direct lateral approach. Patients were assessed over the first 12 weeks for parameters from gait analysis, functional performance on the Timed Up and Go test, and patient-reported functional and pain outcomes. Results demonstrated favourable results with respect to the TUG test, gait velocity, and stride length up to 6 weeks, and single limb support of the operative limb and symmetry between limbs in support up to 12 weeks. Nonetheless, patient-reported measures did not significantly differ between groups at any time point.