Hip: complication of total hip replacement: practice question

A Orthopaedics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Orthopaedics · Hip: complication of total hip replacement

Sample item

Which is the commonest early complication after total hip arthroplasty by the posterior approach?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Dislocation

Dislocation is the commonest early complication, particularly with the posterior approach when the hip is flexed, adducted and internally rotated. Patients are advised to avoid these positions in the early postoperative period. Late problems include aseptic loosening and wear.

Option by option

  • A. Periprosthetic fracture only

    Periprosthetic fracture is less frequent than dislocation.

  • B. Dislocation (correct)

    Correct. Dislocation is the commonest early complication.

  • C. Fat embolism

    Fat embolism is less common.

  • D. Loosening

    Loosening is a late complication.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is B, Dislocation. Dislocation is the commonest early complication, particularly with the posterior approach when the hip is flexed, adducted and internally rotated.

Why is "Periprosthetic fracture only" not the answer?

Periprosthetic fracture is less frequent than dislocation.

Why is "Fat embolism" not the answer?

Fat embolism is less common.

Why is "Loosening" not the answer?

Loosening is a late complication.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Hip: complication of total hip replacement in Orthopaedics. Patients are advised to avoid these positions in the early postoperative period. Late problems include aseptic loosening and wear.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Hip: complication of total hip replacement?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.