Modern joint replacement surgery has advanced considerably in recent decades. One of the latest innovations is the ALMIS method (Anterolateral Minimally Invasive Approach), which, in combination with short-stem prostheses, has become a proven technique. This combination offers an optimal solution for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery. In this article, you will learn everything about the ALMIS method, the advantages of short-stem prostheses, and why this approach is considered the future of hip replacement surgery.

What is the ALMIS method?

The ALMIS method represents a minimally invasive approach to the hip via the anterolateral approach. This surgical approach does not require the detachment of muscles or tendons, which reduces postoperative pain and accelerates rehabilitation.

Advantages of the ALMIS method

Reduced tissue damage: The muscle remains intact, resulting in fewer complications.

Faster mobilization: Patients can often get up on the same day.

Shorter hospital stays: The minimally invasive approach shortens the healing time.

Improved stability: The joint remains stable because muscle function is preserved.

What is ALMIS access?

The ALMIS approach is a surgical procedure performed via an anterolateral incision. This approach was specifically developed to protect muscle structures such as the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus, thereby ensuring faster recovery and better functionality after hip surgery.

Unlike traditional surgical approaches, the ALMIS approach allows for precise placement of the prosthesis without extensive transection of muscles or tendons. This is particularly advantageous when implanting a short-stem prosthesis.

ALMIS access technology

Incision technique: A skin incision is made at an angle of approximately 10–12 cm along the front of the thigh, near the hip.

Muscle sparing: The anterolateral position avoids directly cutting through any important muscles. Instead, access is gained either between the muscles (intermuscular) or along their fibers (interfascial).

Preservation of nerve structures: The technique minimizes the risk of damage to sensitive nerves such as the femoral nerve or the superior gluteal nerve.

Precise implantation: The ALMIS approach allows for precise positioning of the prosthesis, thereby reducing the risk of complications such as dislocations.

Benefits of the ALMIS approach

Shorter operating time and faster recovery:
Thanks to its minimally invasive nature, the ALMIS approach allows for rapid postoperative mobilization. Many patients are able to get up and walk just a few hours after the operation.

Muscle and tissue preservation:
Avoiding large-scale muscle cutting leads to less pain and better muscle preservation, which is particularly important for athletically active or younger patients.

Reduction of complications:
The ALMIS approach reduces the risk of postoperative instability or dislocations, as important soft tissue structures remain intact.

Improved aesthetics:
The smaller skin incision leaves a minimally visible scar, which is cosmetically advantageous for many patients.

Application areas of ALMIS access

Short stem prostheses: The ALMIS approach is ideally suited for the implantation of short stem prostheses, which are particularly used in younger, more active patients with high bone density.

Revision surgeries: Even in demanding procedures, such as the replacement or revision of hip prostheses, the ALMIS approach offers clear advantages.

Early-stage osteoarthritis or joint-preserving procedures: This method is also ideally suited for patients with less advanced osteoarthritis.

Limitations and challenges

Despite its numerous advantages, the ALMIS approach is not always the method of choice. Patients with severe deformities, significant obesity, or limited hip joint mobility may benefit from other approaches. The surgeon decides on a case-by-case basis.

The ALMIS approach revolutionizes hip arthroplasty with its minimally invasive, tissue-sparing method. Especially when combined with a short-stem prosthesis, this technique opens up entirely new dimensions in patient care. Rapid rehabilitation, improved functionality, and reduced postoperative discomfort make it one of the most advanced approaches in modern orthopedics.

What is a short-stem prosthesis?

A short-stem prosthesis is an innovative type of hip replacement specifically designed for younger and active patients. Unlike conventional prostheses, it requires less bone material for anchoring.

Features of the short stem prosthesis

Less invasive: Minimal bone cutting.

Optimal bone integration: Specifically designed for long-term stability.

Flexibility: Adaptable to different anatomical conditions.

Indications

Younger patients with a high activity level.

Good bone quality.

Patients with high functional requirements.

Advantages of combining ALMIS and short shaft

The combination of the ALMIS method and short stem prostheses offers many advantages that benefit the patient.

1. Less postoperative pain

Thanks to the muscle-sparing approach of the ALMIS method and the minimally invasive technique of the short stem prosthesis, patients report less pain.

2. Faster rehabilitation

Patients can be mobilized earlier, which speeds up the healing process.

3. Natural range of motion

The bone-sparing approach allows for a faster restoration of natural mobility.

4. Longer-lasting results

Long-term prognoses show that short-stem prostheses in combination with the ALMIS method achieve higher patient satisfaction.

Anatomy of the hip and the importance of short-stem prostheses

To understand the advantages of the ALMIS method and the short stem prosthesis, it is important to know the anatomy of the hip.

Anatomy of the hip

The hip consists of the thigh bone (femur) and the socket (acetabulum). In diseases such as osteoarthritis, the articular cartilage is destroyed, leading to pain and restricted movement.

Why short stem prostheses are optimal here

Preservation of the bone structure of the femur.

Adaptation to the natural anatomy.

Improvement of the load distribution in the joint.

Postoperative rehabilitation using the ALMIS method

Rehabilitation begins immediately after the operation.

Phase 1: First days after surgery

Early mobilization: Getting up on the first day.

Pain management: Use of painkillers as needed.

Phase 2: Weeks 1-6

Physiotherapy: Focus on movement exercises.

Avoiding incorrect weight distribution: Correct walking technique with walking aids.

Phase 3: Months 2-6

Increased workload.

Gradual return to normal activities.

Why the combination of ALMIS and short shaft is the future

The ALMIS method, in combination with short-stem prostheses, offers numerous advantages and has established itself as one of the best techniques. Its innovative technology, muscle-sparing approach, and excellent rehabilitation options make it the first choice for many patients.

Conclusion

The combination of ALMIS and short stem is a revolution in endoprosthetics. It offers patients a safe, effective, and sustainable solution for hip conditions. When indicated and performed correctly, this method is undoubtedly one of the best options for hip surgery.