A hip dislocation, (highly traumatic) is when the ball joint of your hip (femur) pops out of its socket (acetabulum). It is acutely painful and disabling and immediate care reduces the chance of long-term complications. In most hip dislocations, the femoral head of the thighbone is forced out of the acetabulum toward the rear (posterior dislocation). Less often, the displaced ball is pushed out forward from the pelvis (anterior dislocation).
Causes of hip dislocation
A dislocated hip most commonly occurs during an auto collision (car accident), a high-impact fall, or as the result of a sports or work injury, especially those that also result in a broken leg or pelvis.
Symptoms of a dislocated hip
If you have dislocated your hip, you will most certainly know about it due to the acute and excruciating pain! You’ll also notice that your leg is locked in a fixed position, rotated either inwards or outwards. Your rotated leg may also appear shorter or longer than the other and you may see swelling or discoloration at your hip. Patients with a dislocated hip are usually unable to move it and often have a loss of feeling in their hip and in their foot.
Diagnosing a dislocated hip
Dr Singh can usually identify a dislocated hip just by looking at it, but he will also want to perform a physical examination to assess if other related injuries are present.
Dr Singh will usually order x-rays or a CT scan also to help confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of your condition so that it can be treated effectively. He may also request an MRI or other tests to before surgery.
Treating a dislocated hip
Dislocated hips need urgent, medical care in the hospital emergency department or operating theatre to try and prevent the complication of avascular necrosis.
Treatment involves reduction, in which Dr Singh repositions the bones back to their normal position under anaesthesia. Surgery may also be performed to remove fragments of bone or torn tissues that block and prevent reduction and physiotherapy after surgery is vital in order to regaining the strength and mobility back in your hip joint after treatment.
