What is the safe zone for femoral and acetabular sided version in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)?

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Last updated: March 7, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

The safe zone for combined femoral and acetabular version in total hip arthroplasty is typically considered to be 25-50 degrees, with acetabular anteversion approximately 15-25 degrees and femoral anteversion about 10-25 degrees. This is based on the most recent evidence, although the provided studies do not directly address the safe zone for femoral and acetabular version in total hip arthroplasty 1. The concept of combined anteversion is crucial as it considers the relationship between both components, affecting hip stability. Surgeons often aim for a combined anteversion of approximately 35 degrees, adjusting based on individual patient anatomy. Staying within this safe zone minimizes the risk of dislocation, a common complication following hip replacement. Excessive anteversion can lead to anterior instability, while insufficient anteversion may result in posterior dislocation. The concept of combined anteversion allows for personalization based on patient-specific factors such as native anatomy, soft tissue tension, and approach used during surgery.

Key considerations for determining the safe zone include:

  • Acetabular anteversion: 15-25 degrees
  • Femoral anteversion: 10-25 degrees
  • Combined anteversion: approximately 35 degrees
  • Individual patient anatomy and surgical approach should be considered for adjustments

It's essential to note that the provided studies focus on postoperative pain management in total hip arthroplasty, rather than the safe zone for femoral and acetabular version. However, the general principles of hip stability and the importance of proper component positioning are relevant to minimizing complications such as dislocation. Therefore, the recommendation is based on general knowledge of total hip arthroplasty and the importance of proper component positioning, rather than the specific studies provided 1.

From the Research

Safe Zone for Femoral and Acetabular Sided Version in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)

  • The safe zone for combined anteversion in THA is generally considered to be between 25°-50° 2, 3.
  • However, the safe zone may vary depending on the surgical approach used, with a safe zone of 20°-40° proposed for the trans-gluteal approach 3.
  • Acetabular component positioning is critical, with a safe zone of 5°-25° of anteversion and 30°-50° of abduction proposed by Lewinnek 4, 5.
  • Patient-specific safe zones may provide more accurate targets for acetabular component positioning, taking into account spinopelvic parameters 6.
  • The use of intra-operative fluoroscopy can help improve component positioning, particularly for anteversion and inclination of the acetabular cup 5.

Factors Influencing Safe Zone

  • Surgical approach: The choice of surgical approach can influence the combined anteversion needed for a stable and impingement-free THA 3.
  • Spinopelvic parameters: Patient-specific spinopelvic parameters can affect the safe zone for acetabular component positioning 6.
  • Component positioning: Accurate positioning of the acetabular and femoral components is critical for achieving a safe zone and preventing dislocation 2, 4.

Implications for THA

  • The safe zone for combined anteversion in THA is not universally applicable and may vary depending on the surgical approach and patient-specific factors 3, 6.
  • The use of intra-operative fluoroscopy and patient-specific safe zones may help improve component positioning and reduce the risk of dislocation 5, 6.
  • Further research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for safe zones in THA, taking into account the complexities of spinopelvic mechanics and patient-specific factors 4, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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