Radiological aspects of posterior dislocation of the hip

Ninety-six cases of traumatic dislocation of the hip were admitted to one general hospital over a 10-year period. Eighty of these (83.3%) were posterior dislocations, usually with associated acetabular fractures (81.25%). The aetiology and various complications of posterior hip dislocation are described adn discussed, together with the radiographic management. Radiologists should take special care to exclude associated femoral and pelvic fractures both within and beyond the acetabulum. Fractures of the ipsilateral femur associated with posterior hip dislocation usually involve the femoral head and the radiological appearances and assessment of this injury is important. Ipsilateral femoral shaft fractures are less frequent, but it may be the hip dislocation which is then overlooked unless there is an awareness of the combined injury.