Soft-Tissue Evaluation

The significance of assessing and adjusting soft-tissue tension during total hip arthroplasty (THA) is to achieve a good range of motion (ROM) without dislocation. An accurate leg length adjustment is required for THA; however, there are cases in which leg length and soft-tissue tone are at odds. An extremely high soft-tissue tension impairs ROM. If the surrounding soft-tissue tension is extremely low, the joint continues to move without braking and bony or implant impingement can occur, causing dislocation. There is also the possibility of significant separation of the head from the liner without impingement [1]. The evaluation and adjustment of soft-tissue tension in THA assumes an accurate implant placement angle and surrounding bone and soft tissue treatment to achieve the proper ROM, and adjustment of the implant placement position, neck length, offset, and soft-tissue tension must consider leg length. Soft-tissue adjustment is an important technique to achieve appropriate ROM and braking and avoid inappropriate head release.