Total hip replacement: The direct superior approach (DSA)
Written by:
Orthopaedic surgeon
Published: 12/11/2018
Edited by: Laura Burgess
In order for a patient to undergo a total hip replacement, it is inevitable that a surgical approach to the hip has to be made. There are a number of approaches available, and each one has its own advantages and its disadvantages. A novel approach for total hip replacement is called the direct superior approach, or DSA.
Here to provide an expert insight into the direct superior approach (DSA), including its benefits, is leading orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Constant Busch.
What are the traditional hip replacement procedures?
The most common traditionally-used approaches are the lateral or direct lateral approach, the posterior approach, which is the most commonly used in the United Kingdom, and the anterior approach.
How does DSA differ from these traditional procedures?
The direct superior approach is a type of posterior approach. The difference is that with the DSA, the majority of the procedure is done through a muscle splitting approach, and only two tendons have to be divided in order to obtain access to the hip.
How does DSA differ from these traditional procedures?
Splitting muscles is always preferred over cutting muscles as muscle damaged by cutting takes longer to heal and may be more uncomfortable. The two tendons can easily be repaired and reduce the amount of trauma, allowing access to the hip joint to a great extent.
What are the benefits of DSA?
Performing a total hip replacement by minimising trauma to the soft tissue has considerable benefits with regards to the speed of recovery. There is evidence to suggest that patients undergoing total hip replacement using a direct superior approach recover more quickly. That is one of the main benefits of DSA.
Who is eligible for DSA surgery?
Most patients can undergo total hip replacement using the DSA approach. Like any other approach, however, patients who are very muscular or considerably overweight may not be ideal candidates for a direct superior approach. Patients wishing to undergo total hip replacement using DSA should be assessed on their individual merits and requirements.
If you require total hip replacement and you would like to consult your options with an expert, do not hesitate to book an appointment with Mr Constant Busch via his Top Doctors profile today.