The direct lateral approach (Hardinge) splits the fibers of the gluteus medius which is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve. With this approach, there is no true internervous plane. After incising the fascia lata, the fibers of the gluteus medius are split as are the fibers of the vastus lateralis. The transverse branch of the lateral circumflex artery is often cut as the vastus lateralis is mobilized and must be cauterized during the dissection. .
