Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The direct superior approach to total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a recently developed technique aimed at sparing the iliotibial band, obturator externus tendon, and quadratus femoris muscle while working within the familiar anatomical landscape of the posterior approach. While the direct superior approach has been used for more than a decade, there is a lack of midterm outcomes and safety data. This study elaborates on promising short-term results and aims to investigate the midterm outcomes of the direct superior approach.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present a unicentric, retrospective case-controlled analysis of a minimum two-year follow up of the direct superior approach in comparison to those of the more conventional and established mini-posterior approach.RESULTS: The results indicate that patient recovery, as measured by Harris Hip Score and timed-up-and-go at three months and two years, are virtually identical. There was no difference in gait aid utilization or frequency of narcotic use. However, there was a statistically significant reduction in length of stay by over one day associated with the direct superior approach (p=0.003). There was no compromise in acetabular component position or observed lucencies over time.CONCLUSION: Overall, the direct superior approach appears to be safe and warrants longer-term study to evaluate its effect on hospital-related cost, same-day discharge, and hip stability.

View details for PubMedID 33463694