Abstract
Introduction
Dislocation is one of the most common complications following total hip arthroplasty. The literature suggests a frequency of 1–3% for primary total hip replacement (THR) and 7–10% for revision procedures. No definitive treatment algorithm exists for their management, with some surgeons attempting to constrain hip motion with casting or bracing initially. The evidence for this practice is limited. The purpose of this study was to determine the current practice for managing THR dislocation within our unit, and to determine the effectiveness of abduction bracing.
Method
A retrospective case-note analysis was performed on all patients admitted with a dislocated THR between 01/01/08 and 31/12/10. Patients were categorised into three groups: first time dislocators, recurrent dislocators, or dislocation occurring following revision surgery. The following data was collected; time from original surgery, closed or open reduction, surgical approach, prescription of abduction brace post-operatively, and the number of subsequent dislocations. Any patients who underwent open reduction were excluded from the study.
Results
A total of 45 patients were included in the study. Of the first time dislocators, 75% treated with abduction brace re-dislocated, and 26% of patients treated without bracing re-dislocated. In the recurrent group 63% had been braced after their initial dislocation.
Conclusion
Based on this study the benefit of abduction braces is limited and patient compliance tends to be poor. The cost of these appliances is significant (£450/£525) and patients typically have a prolonged hospital stay for ordering and application. Our unit has subsequently discontinued the use of such braces. Goals to reducing THR dislocation remain; meticulous preoperative planning and patient selection, accurate component positioning with intraoperative stability testing, good soft tissue repair, and early patient education.
