Direct Superior Hip Replacement Approach

The direct superior hip replacement approach is an advanced surgical technique that allows orthopedic surgeons to replace the hip joint while minimizing tissue damage. This minimally invasive approach preserves key muscles and ligaments around the hip, leading to faster recovery, less pain, and improved post-operative mobility.

At Iowa Ortho, our hip specialists utilize the direct superior approach to provide patients with safer, more efficient hip replacement procedures tailored to their individual needs.

What is the direct superior hip replacement approach?

The direct superior approach is a variation of minimally invasive hip replacement surgery. Unlike traditional methods, this technique allows surgeons to access the hip joint through a smaller incision while preserving the important muscles that stabilize the hip.

Key features include:

• Smaller surgical incision compared to traditional posterior or lateral approaches
• Preservation of major hip-stabilizing muscles and ligaments
• Less disruption to surrounding tissues for faster recovery

Benefits of the direct superior approach

Patients may experience several advantages compared to traditional hip replacement approaches:

• Reduced post-operative pain
• Smaller incision and less scarring
• Faster rehabilitation and return to daily activities
• Lower risk of hip dislocation
• Preservation of natural hip mechanics

Who is a candidate?

The direct superior hip replacement approach is ideal for:

• Patients requiring total hip replacement due to arthritis, fractures, or degeneration
• Individuals seeking minimally invasive surgery with faster recovery
• Patients looking to maintain hip stability and function post-surgery

Your orthopedic surgeon will determine if this approach is right for your specific condition, anatomy, and lifestyle.

The procedure

• Preparation: Patients receive anesthesia and are positioned for optimal access to the hip.
• Surgery: The surgeon makes a small incision, carefully accesses the hip joint, and replaces the damaged components with a prosthetic implant while preserving muscles and ligaments.
• Closure: The incision is closed, and patients begin early mobilization as tolerated.

Recovery & rehabilitation

Recovery from a direct superior hip replacement emphasizes:

• Early mobilization to maintain strength and flexibility
• Physical therapy to restore hip function and balance
• Gradual return to daily activities and low-impact exercise
• Pain management and follow-up with your orthopedic team

Most patients experience quicker recovery and less discomfort compared to traditional hip replacement approaches.

Why choose Iowa Ortho?

• Expert orthopedic surgeons experienced in minimally invasive hip replacement techniques
• Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for optimal recovery
• Personalized care plans tailored to your anatomy, activity level, and lifestyle
• State-of-the-art surgical technology for precise and safe outcomes

Schedule your consultation

Experience faster recovery and improved mobility with the direct superior hip replacement approach at Iowa Ortho. Schedule a consultation today to learn if this technique is right for you.

Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online today.