The use of a constrained acetabular component for recurrent dislocation

The poor results of surgical treatment of chronic instability after total hip arthroplasty (THA) led to the development of a constrained acetabular component. In this study, 87 constrained THAs implanted for recurrent instability were reviewed retrospectively. Eighty-five hips were available for follow-up evaluation, with an average follow-up period of 58 months. These 85 hips were evaluated at a minimum of 3 years. Two recurrent dislocations were seen, caused by dissociation of the liner from the shell. Four acetabular components and 1 femoral component were revised. Overall, a 2.4% dislocation rate and an 8.2% revision rate were seen. The recurrent dislocation rate of 2.4% represents a significant improvement over other methods reported. Repeat dislocation was only seen in dissociation of cemented liners into well-fixed shells. We do not recommend this mode of fixation.