Frequently Asked Questions

Why do total hip replacements dislocate?

Because a hip replacement typically has a smaller bearing than your natural hip joint. The natural hip joint only rarely dislocates with extreme trauma (a fall from a second story , or a severe motor vehicle accident where the knee is driven against the dashboard). However , a traditional total hip replacement carries a 5-7% lifetime risk of dislocation , without significant trauma. This is because a total hip replacement relies on a mechanically unstable small bearing. To provide a plastic bearing surface and a socket that is thick enough to last , the femoral bearing size needs to be reduced to a much smaller size (average size 28 mm) , than the natural hip (size 44-56 mm). Similar small bearing sizes are also required for ceramic on ceramic implants. This leads to a 5-7% risk of dislocation over the lifetime of the implant. However , very durable modern metal on metal bearings can be manufactured with very thin (3-6 mm) acetabular components. This allows the use of a large femoral component (either THR or HSR) that allow retaining the natural stability of the hip joint. Large bearing metal on metal TKR and HSR rarely if ever dislocate.

Phone Consultation

If you are interested in determining if you are a candidate for surgery, please mail your completed new patient forms to the office and include a digital x-ray.

Dr. Gross will call you back to discuss your options.

Download New Patient Forms

Located in South Carolina

Irmo Office

1013 Lake Murray Blvd.
Irmo, SC 29063

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Columbia Office

1910 Blanding St.
Columbia, SC 29201

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