The Hip-Spine Relationship: The Importance of Femoral Version

Abstract

Recent investigations have confirmed the impact of spinopelvic mobility upon functional acetabular position. However, it is critical to remember the impact of femoral component position as it contributes to combined version of the hip joint. It has been demonstrated that implant position can affect articular wear, the potential for prosthetic impingement as well as a cause of joint instability. Ensuring an impingement-free range of motion at the time of hip replacement is critical to long-term survivorship. During hip reconstruction, there is significant latitude in acetabular component positioning but femoral component version is often dictated by native femoral anatomy and in some instances cannot be adjusted. Understanding the role that femoral version plays in prosthetic hip joint kinematics should provide surgeons with a better understanding of this complex relationship.