Fixing Leg Length Discrepancies after Total Hip Arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

Leg length discrepancies are a common cause of patient dissatisfaction after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The equalization of limb lengths and restoration of the anatomic geometry of the hip to restore normal gait and function are the primary goals during THA. Patients recognize a leg length discrepancy when one leg is shorter than the other by 6 mm or longer than the other by 10 mm after THA. Outside of this range, several problems would occur. Therefore, we should try to maintain leg length during THA via preoperative and intra-operative planning.