Hip Injuries - Hip Dislocation

Authors: Layla Abubshait, MD, Michael Gottlieb, MD, RDMS, Mary Haas, MD
Updated: 11/14/2016

Hip Injuries: Hip Dislocation

Posterior vs anterior hip dislocation drawing

Xray Views

  • AP pelvis
  • CT to look for acetabular fracture, loose bodies, or femoral head fracture

Acute Management

Reduction immediately within 6 hours (because of avascular necrosis risk)

Follow-up Timing

Admit and consult orthopedic surgeon.

Notes

Posterior dislocation (90%): Typically presents with hip flexed and adducted; 5-15% of posterior hip dislocations are associated with a femoral head fracture

Anterior dislocation: Typically presents with hip abducted and externally rotated

References

  • Gill SK, Smith J, Fox R, Chesser TJ. Investigation of occult hip fractures: the use of CT and MRI. Scientific World Journal. 2013;2013:830319. [PubMed]
  • Rodriguez-Merchan EC, Moraleda L, Gomez-Cardero P. Injuries associated with femoral shaft fractures with special emphasis on occult injuries. Arch Bone Jt Surg. 2013 Dec;1(2):59-63. [PubMed]