Complications of Total Hip Replacement

Abstract

Total hip replacement is a highly effective surgical procedure for patients suffering from end stage osteoarthritis and its success in improving symptoms of osteoarthritis has meant that its use has increased across many healthcare systems. Although in experi - enced hands the procedure provides very effective outcomes one must be aware of the potential complications of the procedure. These can be divided into general and proce - dure specific. General complications include infections, postoperative pulmonary issues and thromboembolic complications. Procedural specific complications include a surgi - cal site infection, haemorrhage, nerve injury, dislocation, leg length discrepancy, periprosthetic fractures and heterotrophic ossification. This chapter explores and describes the complications a surgeon may face when performing a total hip replacement and how one may avoid and address these.