Abstract
1. Two cases of recurrent post-traumatic dislocation of the hip are reported.
2. The literature is reviewed and the rarity of the condition is emphasised. Only twenty-two cases have been previously reported, eleven in adults and eleven in children.
3. The sequence of events leading to recurrent dislocation is not understood but the following important facts emerge. The initial incident could not be distinguished from that causing uncomplicated dislocations. There was a significant delay in reduction in a number of cases. Subsequent dislocations followed minor injury. A large defect in the posterior capsule with a large synovial-lined pouch or false joint was found at operation in both our cases. The ligamentum teres was not seen at operation. The surgeon was unable to redislocate the hips during the operation.
4. In both cases reported here treatment was by excision of the posterior pouch and repair of the capsular defect.
5. Based on the above facts some tentative deductions are made.
