Traumatic hip dislocation with ipsilateral femoral shaft fractures

A traumatic dislocation of the hip joint associated with an ipsilateral femoral shaft fracture is a rare injury resulting from severe trauma. Initially the dislocated hip joint is often unrecognized and consequently reduction is delayed. Early diagnosis and reduction of the hip joint improves the functional prognosis. The maximum functional recovery is possible only with greater awareness of this combined injury. Examination of the hip joints by clinical roentgenography in the critically injured patient, especially those with head injuries, or physical signs masked by extremity swelling, should be a routine procedure.