Gait After THA: Direct Anterior vs Manual Posterior vs Robotic Posterior

PROCEDURE

Total hip arthroplasty via direct anterior approach (manual, non-robotic)

Primary THA performed via a direct anterior approach without robotic assistance

PROCEDURE

Total hip arthroplasty via posterior approach (manual, non-robotic)

Primary THA performed via a posterior approach without robotic assistance

PROCEDURE

Robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty via posterior approach

Primary THA via posterior approach using pre-op CT-based planning and intra-op robotic assistance

Walking speed during level gait (m/s)

Time frame: Change from baseline (pre-op) to 6 weeks and 12 weeks post-op.

Mean self-selected walking speed measured over instrumented walkway during motion-capture trials.

Peak hip abduction moment during stance (Nm/kg)

Time frame: Change from baseline (pre-op) to 6 weeks and 12 weeks post-op.

Maximum external hip abduction moment during stance, normalized to body mass.

EMG- Gluteus medius peak activation at initial contact/loading response

Time frame: Change from baseline (pre-op) to 6 weeks and 12 weeks post-op.

Peak normalized surface EMG amplitude of the operated-side gluteus medius measured during the initial contact/loading response of level walking. EMG is sampled synchronously with motion capture and force plates, band-pass filtered (\~20-450 Hz), rectified, and low-pass filtered (\~6 Hz) to form a linear envelope. Strides are time-normalized to 0-100% gait cycle; the peak is extracted within 0-10% of the gait cycle (heel strike through loading response). Amplitude is normalized to the participant's maximum voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC). Participant-level values are the mean of valid trials at each visit.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.