Risk factors of dislocation after total hip arthroplasty in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip

Purpose Dislocation following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a well-known complication. However, there is little data on its rate and predictors in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The current study is aimed to determine the rate and specific risk factors of dislocation following THA in DDH patients. Methods All the medico-surgical records of primary THAs from January 2014 to January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. They were categorized into three main groups: primary OA, DDH, and others. Pre-operative and post-operative radiographs, past medical and surgical history, and surgical notes were reviewed in DDH cases. Results In a total of 171 patients with DDH, 21 suffered from dislocation after THA (12%) which was significantly more frequent than those with primary OA. In univariate analysis, higher grade of dysplasia, smaller head size, intra-operative fracture, Wagner Cone stem, failure of offset restoration, and implanting the cup outside the Lewinnek’s safe zone were identified as predictors of dislocation. In multiple regression analysis, however, only higher Crowe grade, intra-operative fracture, and post-operative acetabular offset less than 16 mm were independent predictors of dislocation. Conclusion Dysplastic hips can be more prone to post-THA dislocation than those with primary OA. Higher grades of dysplasia, failure of offset restoration, and intra-operative fracture can increase the rate of dislocation in this group of patients.