Hip replacement for adults with unreduced congenital dislocation. A new surgical technique.

Total hip replacement for adults with unreduced congenital dislocation presents a difficult problem because soft-tissue contractures usually prevent sitting at the normal anatomical level. Extensive soft-tissue division or a high-level acetabulum leads to reduced function and poor fixation of the components. We describe a new technique for hip replacement in such cases. The shortened abductors and flexors are released proximally and excision of the upper third of the ilium allows them to be repaired without tension, while providing bone graft to reconstruct the acetabular roof. We report 12 such replacements in 10 patients with good results and few early complications.