Total hip replacement for the dislocated hip.

Replacing the dislocated hip is technically more challenging than replacing the subluxated hip. Overall, clinical and radiographic results have not been as good for hips that are completely dislocated. The surgical approach must allow for identification of the false and true acetabula, identification of the sciatic nerve, and lengthening of the leg. In patients with a dislocated hip who are managed with total hip replacement, coverage of the cup can be achieved by medialization, creation of a high hip center, or use of a structural graft. Bone grafting allows the cup to be placed in an anatomic position, provides bone stock for additional surgery, and restores leg length. Our results and the results of other authors confirm that these grafts remain intact for at least 10 years and restore bone stock for additional surgery. This is particularly important in this relatively young population.