Recurrent dislocation of the hip is a difficult management problem. We have chosen to tackle this in a minimal way and avoid complex revisions. All patients were late dislocators, and the majority were older than 75 years with 4 patients being octogenarians.

A 7cm incision is made in the skin at the trochanter, the fascia is opened and the hip dislocated posteriorly the head of the hip is felt under the external rotators and they are opened in a minimal way. The cup is inspected for gross wear, no abnormality has been found. The PLAD is applied and fixed posteriorly after removal of minimal capsular and scar tissue, simple closure takes place with no drain.

This procedure has been performed on nine occasions in our unit and all cases remain successful at a mean followup of 18 months (2–35 months). Operation times varied between 28 –42 minutes (mean 36 mins). Blood loss is minimal. The patient can be mobilised right away and early discharge can be achieved. This technique seems an ideal management solution in and elderly population with a good cup and stem with recurrent dislocation for unknown cause.