Preoperative planning to prevent dislocation of the hip

Because treatment for dislocations after a total hip arthroplasty are a major therapeutic challenge, prevention of this complication is paramount. To minimize the potential for instability, preoperative planning must not only include radiographic templating, but also identification of patient and surgical variables that could increase the likelihood of dislocation. This article discusses considerations such as patient characteristics, surgical experience, the operative approach, component design and positioning, and postoperative treatment and education.