Hip Dislocation
This overview discusses unintentional, traumatic hip dislocation injuries. For information on developmental hip displacement in children and teenagers, see Hip Dysplasia. For information on the hip dislocation corrective surgical technique, see Surgical Hip Dislocation.
A traumatic hip dislocation is when the ball of the hip joint is pushed out of the socket. This injury most commonly occurs during an auto collision or a high-impact fall, workplace or sports injury, especially those that also result in a broken leg or pelvis. A dislocated hip can lead to serious long-term debilitating problems, especially if it is severe or not adequately treated within hours of occurance. If a person experiences any forceful impact that results in serious hip pain or pain in the groin, leg or even the knee, he or she should be examined by orthopedic specialist to determine whether there is a hip dislocation.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a dislocated hip or other source of hip pain, an orthopedist will conduct a physical exam and order imaging of the hip in the form of an X-ray, MRI and/or CT scan.
Treatment
Nonsurgical reduction by manipulation: Usually, an orthopedist can simply push the ball back in by hand while the patient is under anesthesia. If, however, the imaging reveals fractures or significant damage to soft tissues, blood vessels or nerves, orthopedic surgery may be required.
Hip dislocations after a total hip replacement
Hip dislocations in people who have had a total hip replacement (THR) are relatively infrequent among otherwise healthy people who follow the precautions provided by their orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist. But higher rates of dislocations occur in certain hip replacement patients: the elderly, those with other physical disabilities, those who had a THR after a hip fracture or after other hip surgeries, and in those who had one or more hip dislocations prior to a THR (for example, if muscles and ligaments around the hip were disrupted from the prior dislocation and weakened as a result). If a patient experiences multiple dislocations after THR, he or she is usually a good candidate for a hip revision surgery.
Our medical team
Our joint reconstruction and replacement specialists have extensive experience performing all types of hip procedures, from primary hip replacement to complex revision surgeries. We are at the forefront of developing new surgical techniques and the use of implants that can help relieve pain and restore range of motion. This depth of experience helps us achieve the best possible results for each patient.
