[Dislocation of total hip endoprosthesis with special reference to various techniques].

1238 primary total hip replacements for arthritis were performed in our hospital from 1980 until 1988. 26 dislocations (2.1%) were registered during this period. No differences became obvious regarding age, sex, type of prosthesis and different concepts of postoperative treatment. After the posterior approach dislocations occurred in 18 (3.1%) of the cases, 8 dislocations (1.2%) were found after the transgluteal approach. The dislocation rate was significantly higher for the posterior approach. Derotation braces were not able to decrease the risk of redislocation. Most of the dislocations happened during the first postoperative week. The most frequent occasions were rotation of the operated leg while lying in bed and deep sitting positions. Performing the posterior approach for primary total hip arthroplasty the surgeon has to realize the higher dislocation rate.