SuperPath® hip experiences - Betsy

Betsy, a 63 year old resident of West Palm Beach, will never take the “small things” for granted again. While most people think nothing of crossing their legs during a conversation, quickly hopping in and out of the car or taking a leisurely stroll during a warm summer day, these simple activities were once impossible for Betsy.

Working with children has been a passion of Betsy’s and rolling around on the floor with the little ones became a routine for many years. However in 2010, Betsy started to experience pain in her hips. For a while, over-the-counter medications managed the pain and kept her active, but two years after the onset of symptoms, Betsy was in so much agony that she wasn’t able to walk up or down stairs.

In early 2012, the pain became so debilitating Betsy knew something needed to be done. After attending a seminar hosted by Dr. Elvis Grandic, currently with Orthopedic Surgery Associates in Boynton Beach, Betsy consulted with Dr. Grandic to learn more about the SuperPath^® Total Hip Replacement procedure by MicroPort. Dr. Grandic explained to Betsy that she should experience less post-operative pain and quicker recovery time because with the SuperPath^® operation, the hip isn’t dislocated during surgery.

In January 2012, Dr. Grandic utilized the SuperPath^® technique to replace Betsy’s left hip. The SuperPath^® technique is a surgical method whereby the implant is built inside the body, so the hip is not dislocated or twisted into unnatural positions during surgery—a common element to many other hip procedures. The SuperPath^® procedure enables surgeons to take into account each patient’s unique anatomy, select the most appropriate implant and selectively release a single tendon during surgery, only if necessary.

When Betsy woke up she was surprised that she didn’t feel any pain. Even more remarkable was that within a few hours after major surgery, she was on her feet and moving around. Three days after her surgery, Betsy was discharged from the hospital.

Betsy committed herself to physical therapy and completed her rehabilitation quickly. In fact, she progressed so well that during her post-operative check up with Dr. Grandic, she scheduled surgery in March to have her right hip replaced with the SuperPath^® technique. That surgery was also successful. “Electing to have both hips replaced with the SuperPath^®procedure was the best decision I’ve ever made,” said Betsy. “I don’t have any pain and I’m now more mobile than I’ve ever been! It’s wonderful.

The SuperPath^® technique, from MicroPort, is a surgical method whereby the implant is built inside the body, so the hip is never twisted into unnatural positions during surgery — a common element to many other hip procedures. The SuperPath^® technique enables surgeons to take into account each patient’s unique anatomy, select the most appropriate implant and selectively release a single tendon during surgery, only if necessary.

These results are specific to this individual only. Individual results and activity levels after surgery vary and depend on many factors including age, weight and prior activity level. There are risks and recovery times associated with surgery and there are certain individuals who should not undergo surgery.

Only a physician can tell you if this product and associated procedure are right for you and your unique circumstances. Please consult with a physician for complete information regarding benefits, risks and possible outcomes.