Instability is a common indication for revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, even after the initial revision, some patients continue to have recurrent dislocations. This study investigates those at risk for recurrent dislocation after revision THA for instability at a single institution.

Between 2009 and 2019, 163 patients underwent revision THA for instability at a single institution. Thirty-three of these patients required re-revision THA due to recurrent dislocation. Cox proportional hazard models with death as a competing event were used to analyze risk factors, including prosthesis sizing and alignment. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to assess patient outcomes (Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical score, VR-12 mental score, Harris Hip Score, and hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score for joint replacement).

Duration of follow-up until either re-revision or final follow-up was a mean of 45.3 ± 38.2 months. The 1-year cumulative incidence for recurrent dislocation after revision was 8.7%, which increased to 19.6% at 5 years and 32.9% at 10 years postoperatively. In the multivariable analysis, high ASA score [HR 2.71], being underweight (BMI<18 kg/m²) [HR 36.26] or overweight/obese (BMI>25 kg/m²) [HR 4.31], use of specialized liners [HR 5.51–10.71], lumbopelvic stiffness [HR 6.29], and postoperative abductor weakness [HR 7.20] were significant risk factors for recurrent dislocation. Increasing the cup size decreased the dislocation risk [HR 0.89]. The dual mobility construct did not affect the risk for recurrent dislocation in univariate or multivariable analyses. VR-12 physical and HHS (pain and function) scores improved postoperatively at midterm.

Patients requiring revision THA for instability are at risk for recurrent dislocation. Higher ASA scores, abnormal BMI, use of special liners, lumbopelvic stiffness, and postoperative abductor weakness are significant risk factors for re-dislocation.