Role of navigation in total hip arthroplasty

Current uses of computed tomography-based and imageless navigation systems for total hip arthroplasty include proper placement of the acetabular component, measurement of limb-length changes, enablement of minimally invasive surgery, and proper placement of components for hip resurfacing procedures. This article provides an overview of the rationale for computer-assisted surgery in total hip arthroplasty and hip resurfacing. The experience of the senior author (M.L.S.) with computer-assisted surgery for hip arthroplasty has demonstrated improved position of the acetabular component as compared with the position attainable with use of mechanical instruments, maintenance of appropriate position of the acetabular component during minimally invasive surgery, and appropriate positioning of the femoral and acetabular components during the learning curve for hip resurfacing procedures.