SUPERPATH Hip Replacement Surgery

What is SUPERPATH?

SUPERPATH (Supercapsular Percutaneously-Assisted Total Hip) is a minimally invasive surgical technique for total hip replacement. Unlike traditional approaches that require cutting muscles and tendons around the hip, SUPERPATH is performed through a very small incision while preserving key muscles and tendons.

Key Features

• Small incision (6–10 cm)
• Preservation of hip muscles and tendons (gluteus medius, external rotators)
• No dislocation of the hip during the procedure
• Implant placed in the same way as in standard hip replacement, just through a different pathway

Surgical Technique (Simplified)

1. Patient positioned on their side.
2. A small incision is made above the hip joint.
3. Surgeon enters the hip capsule through a “supercapsular” approach without detaching major muscles.
4. The femoral head is removed in pieces through the small incision.
5. Acetabular cup is prepared and placed.
6. Femoral canal prepared and stem inserted.
7. Ball is placed on the stem and reduced into the socket without forcing dislocation.

Advantages

• Smaller incision and less tissue trauma
• Reduced blood loss
• Faster early recovery and rehabilitation
• Lower risk of hip dislocation
• Less postoperative pain
• Shorter hospital stay (sometimes same-day discharge)

Disadvantages & Limitations

• Technically demanding, requires special training
• Longer learning curve for surgeons
• Not always suitable for complex hip deformities or severe arthritis cases
• Slightly longer operative time in the beginning

Comparison with Other Techniques

• Traditional Posterior/Anterior Hip Replacement: Larger incision, muscle detachment, longer recovery
• SUPERPATH: Muscle-sparing, minimally invasive, faster mobilization

Recovery

• Patients often walk the same day or next day with support
• Fewer restrictions (no “hip precautions” like avoiding bending or crossing legs)
• Return to daily activities in 2–4 weeks (varies by patient)

Summary

SUPERPATH hip replacement is a modern, muscle-sparing surgical technique designed to minimize trauma, speed recovery, and lower dislocation risk compared to traditional approaches. While not suitable for every patient, it is increasingly adopted for eligible cases by surgeons trained in this method.