Pelvic flexion/extension and its impact on functional acetabular alignment and stability following total hip replacement

Abstract

Purpose Dislocation following total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains a significant clinical problem and can occur even with optimal implant alignment. We hypothesized that different patterns of pelvic flexion/extension (PFE) during daily activities may influence acetabular alignment and contribute to impingement and instability following THA. Recently, there has been an increased interest in spinopelvic alignment and its impact on THA. Therefore, this study aimed to identify different patterns of PFE that could be predictive of instability following THA. Methods A range of motion (ROM) simulator was used to demonstrate the effects of different patterns of PFE on ROM and impingement. The findings were applied to PFE measurements obtained from 84 patients in standing and sitting positions. Results Three different categories of PFE were identified: normal, hypermobile, and stiff. ROM simulator revealed that changes in PFE had affected ROM and impingement significantly. Patients in the stiff pelvis category, even with “optimal” implant alignment, were more susceptible to implant impingement. Conclusions The different patterns of PFE during daily activities could affect acetabular alignment and stability following THA. We propose a classification system that can identify different types of PFE and predict their effects on the stability of prostheses following THA. Hence, we believe that patients with unfavorable PFE may require modified cup alignment.