We describe a modification of the direct lateral approach to the hip that provides excellent femoral and acetabular exposure
and an easy way to shorten the proximal femur and equalize leg length. The approach also is useful for lower extremity elongation
while preserving muscle continuity and minimizing postoperative complications. The exact amount of shortening can be calculated
and planned preoperatively and measured and corrected intraoperatively if necessary. It avoids the necessity for osteotomies
of the trochanter and transverse cuts or detachment of abductor muscles.
Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Kresimir Korzinek—retired.
Each author certifies that he or she has no commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest,
patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article.
Each author certifies that his or her institution has approved the human protocol for this investigation, that all investigations
were conducted in conformity with ethical principles of research, and that informed consent for participation in the study
was obtained.