The role of patient restrictions in early dislocation following total hip arthroplasty: a randomized, prospective study

Abstract

This randomized, prospective study reports on the role of standard hip precautions in preventing dislocation after total hip arthroplasty. 303 hips (275 patients) were randomized into one of two groups. “Restricted” group patients received hip precautions during the first six weeks, whereas the “Unrestricted” group patients had none of these restrictions. There was one dislocation in the entire cohort occurring in a “restricted” group patient during transfer to bed with an abduction pillow in place. Removal of patient restrictions did not increase the incidence of instability following primary hip arthroplasty performed through anterolateral approach. However, it did promote a higher level of patient satisfaction.