Recurrent dislocation after total hip arthroplasty: treatment with an Achilles tendon allograft

Surgical treatment of recurrent dislocation after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is challenging with often disappointing results. Among possible causes of dislocation, the influence of the static soft tissue restraint provided by the hip capsule is important, and restoration of its integrity and function is a major goal of treatment. We describe a new technique in which an Achilles tendon allograft is employed as a checkrein to limit hip internal rotation and to prevent posterior instability. Ten unstable THAs were treated using this technique, eliminating instability in 6. At an average follow-up of 3 years, Achilles tendon allograft augmentation has proved to be a useful adjunct for the treatment of recurrent posterior dislocation after THA in selected patients.