The Wuerzburg procedure: the tensor fasciae latae perforator is a reliable anatomical landmark to clearly identify the Hueter interval when using the minimally-invasive direct anterior approach to the hip joint

BACKGROUND: The key for successful delivery in minimally-invasive hip replacement lies in the exact knowledge about the surgical anatomy. The minimally-invasive direct anterior approach to the hip joint makes it necessary to clearly identify the tensor fasciae latae muscle in order to enter the Hueter interval without damaging the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. However, due to the inherently restricted overview in minimally-invasive surgery, this can be difficult even for experienced surgeons. METHODS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: In this technical note, we demonstrate for the first time how to use the tensor fasciae latae perforator as anatomical landmark to reliably identify the tensor fasciae latae muscle in orthopaedic surgery. Such perforators are used for flaps in plastic surgery as they are constant and can be found at the lateral third of the tensor fasciae latae muscle in a direct line from the anterior superior iliac spine. CONCLUSION: As demonstrated in this article, a simple knowledge transfer between surgical disciplines can minimize the complication rate associated with minimally-invasive hip replacement.