Paralytic Dislocation of the Hip

Twenty-two dislocations of the hip occurring in patients paralysed from an early age have been studied. All showed abnormal coxa valga. The coxa valga, which may gradually reach 180 degrees, precedes dislocation and makes it inevitable. The presence of unbalanced adductor power may hasten dislocation, but the latter can occur in complete flaccid paralysis. 2. The combination of structural instability of the hip joint and muscular weakness may make independent walking impossible, but restoration of stability gives considerable improvement in any remaining muscular power and may alter the patient's whole future. 3. A method of correcting the basic deformity of coxa valga by osteotomy is described and the results of nine operations are reviewed.