Postoperative hip precautions after total hip replacement include avoiding which movement?

• A. Abduction away from midline
• B. Flexion with the knee in extension
• C. External rotation
• D. Adduction across the midline

Answer: (D)

After a total hip replacement, preventing dislocation of the new joint is the main goal of postoperative precautions. The movement most likely to cause dislocation is bringing the operated leg toward the opposite leg, crossing the midline. This adduction position can lever the femoral component out of the acetabular cup, especially while tissues are still healing. While specific restrictions can vary by surgical approach—some approaches emphasize avoiding deep flexion or internal rotation, others restrict extension or external rotation—the common, most emphasized risk is adduction across the midline. In practice, this means avoiding crossing the legs and keeping the operated leg aligned when sitting, standing, or turning.