EVALUATING HIP ARTHROPLASTY TECHNIQUES IN ELDERLY ATHLETES WITH FEMORAL NECK FRACTURES AND CEREBRAL INFARCTION SEQUELAE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SUPER PATH AND POSTEROLATERAL APPROACHES

Abstract

Objective: This pilot clinical trial aims to compare the outcomes of hip arthroplasty using the SUPER PATH approach versus the posterolateral approach in elderly athletes who have sustained femoral neck fractures with sequelae of cerebral infarction, focusing on recovery and mobility enhancements. Methods: We enrolled 40 elderly athletes who underwent hip arthroplasty due to femoral neck fractures compounded by prior cerebral infarction. They were divided into two groups based on the surgical approach: SUPER PATH (n=20) and posterolateral (n=20). The primary outcomes measured were postoperative pain, recovery speed, range of motion, and overall mobility, assessed through standardized physical therapy milestones and patient-reported outcomes measures. Results: Preliminary findings indicated that patients in the SUPER PATH group experienced faster recovery times, reduced pain scores, and improved early mobility compared to those in the posterolateral group. Range of motion improvements were statistically significant in the SUPER PATH group within the first six weeks post-operation. Conclusion: The SUPER PATH approach for hip arthroplasty in elderly athletes with femoral neck fractures and cerebral infarction sequelae appears to offer advantages in terms of pain management, speed of recovery, and early postoperative mobility. This technique could potentially be more beneficial for elderly athletes, aiding quicker return to daily activities and possibly athletic endeavors, compared to the traditional posterolateral approach. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is recommended to validate these findings and explore long-term functional outcomes.