Complications of total hip arthroplasty treated by reoperation

In a series of 3,204 consecutive total hip arthroplasties performed on 2,684 patients at the Mayo Clinic from March 1, 1969, through February 28, 1972, reoperation for a complication was necessary in 125 hips (3.9 per cent). The complications, in order of frequency, were infection, dislocation, trochanteric problems, ectopic bone, and loosening of the femoral prosthesis. There were less frequent complications that also required further surgery. Attention to specific technical details is the most important means of avoiding a complication that requires reoperation.