Muscle-sparing hip replacement surgery

Good functional recovery following total hip arthroplasty via the SuperPath approach combined with biological tissue glue

Published on: 8/15/2026

The case involves a 73-year-old female patient who was hospitalized following a slip-and-fall accident. Clinical examination combined with diagnostic imaging confirmed a femoral neck fracture—a common injury in the elderly that poses a severe risk to mobility if left untreated promptly.

After a comprehensive evaluation of her health status and the extent of the injury, the patient was indicated for a hip replacement surgery. Dr. Vu Anh directly performed the surgery using the SuperPath approach combined with biological tissue glue, as usual—a minimally invasive hip replacement method that avoids muscle cutting, thereby maximally preserving the periarticular muscle and soft tissue systems. Additionally, the incision was closed with biological glue to optimize aesthetic outcomes and support the recovery process.

Figure 1: Dr. Vu Anh performing the hip replacement surgery

Figure 2: The patient's incision immediately after surgery

Less than a day after surgery, the patient was already able to begin rehabilitation exercises with a U-shaped walker under the guidance of the professional team. Early mobilization right after surgery stems from the fact that the patient did not experience significant postoperative pain and the muscles and ligaments retained their strength following surgery (due to being uncut). The patient was discharged on May 4, 2026, in a stable condition, which is just over 3 days post-surgery.

After about 2 weeks, the patient was able to discard the walker and engage in self-mobilization and light walking. At the follow-up visit after approximately 6 weeks, the evaluation results showed very favorable recovery progress. X-ray imaging recorded the artificial hip joint in a good position with no abnormal signs. The surgical incision healed well.

Figure 3: Postoperative radiograph of the patient

Figure 4: The patient at the follow-up visit after more than 6 weeks, demonstrating good mobility

Figure 5: The patient's incision after about 6 weeks

Functionally, the patient was able to walk steadily, perform daily activities, and practice climbing stairs without requiring assistance from crutches or assistive devices. These are signs that hip joint function is recovering well, with muscle strength and balance significantly improved, helping the patient step-by-step return to an independent daily life.

This case once again demonstrates the benefits of the SuperPath approach combined with biological tissue glue. I am personally very pleased to see the patient recovering favorably after surgery. From losing the ability to walk due to a femoral neck fracture, just a few weeks later the patient was able to rapidly regain mobility and improve her quality of life post-treatment.