Pressure Redistribution and Stability in the Anterior approach to total Hip Replacement
The Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner for Anterior Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a specialized surgical aid designed to stabilize the pelvis and improve surgical site exposure.
Informally known as a “hip bump”, this positioning device was designed to maintain patient alignment while protecting skin integrity against pressure injuries during minimally invasive anterior procedures.
The anterior approach to total hip replacement (THR) is gaining favor for its minimally invasive nature, faster recovery time, and lower risk of complications compared to traditional approaches. Surgical nurses are key in ensuring optimal patient outcomes through careful patient positioning, equipment setup, and skin integrity management.
The “hip bump”
The “hip bump” was originally commissioned by Dr. William Hozack from the renowned Rothman Institute Orthopaedics in Philadelphia, PA. Its design specifically complements the anterior supine approach to THR. This positioner addresses critical concerns related to patient stability, surgical access, and skin protection, all crucial factors in maintaining patient safety and surgical efficiency.
Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner
Rigid foam core encased by soft Akton® polymer
This Hip Positioner features a rigid foam core encased by soft Akton® polymer, offering a combination of firmness and pliability. The unique construction provides a stable, frame-like support structure for maintaining patient positioning during critical surgical steps, such as femoral reaming and implant insertion. Stability during reaming is critical, as any unintended movement can compromise prosthetic alignment, impacting patient recovery and implant longevity.
Avoid makeshift positioning aids
Moreover, Akton® polymer is clinically proven to distribute pressure and reduce shear forces such as those exerted on a patient’s sacral and pelvic tissues during orthopedic procedures. Pressure injuries are a significant concern for surgical patients, especially during prolonged procedures. Thus, using the hip bump mitigates this risk by providing reliable, consistent support without relying on makeshift positioning aids.
Historically, surgical teams often relied on makeshift positioning aids like rolled blankets, taped towels, or IV bags. However, these solutions are inconsistent, unstable, and pose potential safety hazards. In addition, when a surgical team stops to ‘manufacture’ a positioning device from towels or foam, they are diverting critical time away from patient assessment and care.
Using evidence-based positioning devices protects the patient and improves the facility’s bottom line.
Implementing evidence-based positioning devices optimizes clinical resources by reducing the time, energy, and costs associated with surgical prep. Given that operating room minutes are a significant hospital expense, eliminating the need to ‘manufacture’ makeshift positioners directly improve the facility’s bottom line. In California, one minute of operating room time cost an average of $36 to $37 according to a study published in JAMA Surgery.
AORN recommends the use of purpose-built, medical-grade positioning devices over makeshift alternatives. Using the Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner ensures clinical compliance and removes the ‘trial and error’ of makeshift positioning devices, allowing for a faster, safer setup.
AORN advocates for standardized positioning practices
Incorporating this specialized hip positioner into anterior total hip replacement procedures aligns with Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) guidelines. These guidelines advocate for standardized positioning practices to enhance patient safety and reduce complications related to improper support materials. The hip bump’s weighted platform further ensures it remains securely in place, reducing the risk of slipping or shifting that could jeopardize surgical precision or patient safety.
Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner
The reusable and durable design of the Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner also facilitates ease of cleaning with low-level disinfection promoting compliance with infection control protocols essential in surgical environments. Implementing such purpose-designed equipment supports the surgical team’s overall efficiency and contributes to improved patient outcomes.
The Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner is designed to complement the Anterior Supine Approach to THR, this unique hip positioner was engineered to provide consistent, optimal site access and patient stability while protecting the patients skin integrity.
Surgical nurses continually strive for excellence in patient care. Integrating evidence-based positioning devices like the Action® Orthopedic Hip Positioner supports their commitment to patient safety by reducing the risk of pressure injuries during anterior total hip replacement procedures.
Explore the full range of Action® pads and positioners for supine positioning to find the right fit for your operating room needs.
B9047-000
