Hip arthroplasty for congenital dislocation.

From 1974 through 1981, total arthroplasty was performed for arthrosis following congenital dislocation in 25 hips in 17 patients. Pain was the main indication for surgery. Early complications were two dislocations and one deep venous thrombosis. One malpositioned socket and one loosening of the femoral prosthesis and socket were revised. At follow-up 2-9 years postoperatively, 16 hips were excellent, eight good, and one poor. The dysplastic pelvis and femur require implants of special design, and the original acetabulum should be prepared and reinforced at surgery. A radiographic method for calculation of the center position of the hip before and after surgery proved simple and exact.