Minimal surgical approach for recurrent hip dislocation using the posterior lip augmentation device for the Charnley hip arthroplasty.

We present the management of recurrent posterior dislocations in cemented Charnley total hip arthroplasties treated with acetabular augmentation. Certain patients are elderly with comorbid conditions and diminished reserves. We have used a minimal surgical approach to implant 21 posterior lip augmentation devices in elderly patients. Ninety percent of the hips are stable with follow-up of 1 to 3 years (mean, 1.9 years). Eighty-four percent of the patients were satisfied with the outcome. Two cases, which redislocated, were further stabilized by changing the position of the posterior lip augmentation device and are stable. Because of a minimal surgical approach, the time duration of surgery, blood loss, transfusion requirement, inpatient stay, and morbidity are reduced. Posterior lip augmentation device surgery with a minimal approach is a safe and effective procedure for elderly patients who do not have any obvious cause for dislocation.