After a posterior approach total hip replacement, which precaution is recommended?

After a posterior approach total hip replacement, which precaution is recommended?

• A. Do hip adduction past midline
• B. No hip flexion past 90°
• C. Avoid any ROM exercises
• D. Continue full weight-bearing

Answer: (B)

Protecting the new hip from dislocation after a posterior approach hip replacement is the focus of early rehab. This approach involves structures at the back of the joint, so bending the hip too much or placing the leg across the midline can push the femoral head into a unstable position. Limiting hip flexion to 90 degrees directly reduces the risk of posterior dislocation by keeping the thigh from moving into a position that strains the posterior capsule and prosthetic components. While other precautions may also be advised (such as avoiding internal rotation or adduction across the midline), this specific rule—no hip flexion past 90 degrees—is a clear, standard protection during initial healing. The alternatives aren’t typical: actively adducting past midline would increase dislocation risk, avoiding all ROM isn’t standard rehab practice, and full weight-bearing is determined by surgical protocol and healing, not a universal precaution.

Protecting the new hip from dislocation after a posterior approach hip replacement is the focus of early rehab. This approach involves structures at the back of the joint, so bending the hip too much or placing the leg across the midline can push the femoral head into a unstable position. Limiting hip flexion to 90 degrees directly reduces the risk of posterior dislocation by keeping the thigh from moving into a position that strains the posterior capsule and prosthetic components. While other precautions may also be advised (such as avoiding internal rotation or adduction across the midline), this specific rule—no hip flexion past 90 degrees—is a clear, standard protection during initial healing. The alternatives aren’t typical: actively adducting past midline would increase dislocation risk, avoiding all ROM isn’t standard rehab practice, and full weight-bearing is determined by surgical protocol and healing, not a universal precaution.