Hip Dislocation | San Diego Orthopedic Trauma Specialist

Hip Dislocation

Medical term: Traumatic Hip Dislocation

Overview

A traumatic hip dislocation occurs when the femoral head is forced out of the acetabulum, the socket of the hip joint. This injury requires tremendous force and is most commonly caused by motor vehicle collisions, particularly dashboard injuries where the knee strikes the dashboard and drives the femur backward. Falls from height and high-impact sports collisions can also cause hip dislocations.

Hip dislocations are orthopedic emergencies because the blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted when the joint is out of place. Prompt reduction, the procedure to restore the femoral head to its normal position, is essential. Our San Diego trauma team is equipped to manage hip dislocations urgently, evaluate for associated fractures of the acetabulum or femoral head, and provide the follow-up care needed to optimize long-term hip function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hip dislocation an emergency?

Yes. A hip dislocation is an orthopedic emergency that requires urgent reduction, ideally within six hours of injury, to reduce the risk of damage to the blood supply of the femoral head.

Can a hip dislocation cause long-term problems?

Without prompt treatment, hip dislocations can lead to avascular necrosis of the femoral head, sciatic nerve injury, and post-traumatic arthritis. Early reduction and appropriate follow-up care minimize these risks.