IPSILATERAL HIP AND KNEE DISLOCATION

Hip and knee dislocations individually are two of the relatively limit ed orthopaedic emergencies. Long-term results of treatment of these tw o types of injury are associated with avascular necrosis of the femora l head, knee instability, and knee stiffness. Correct early diagnosis, including arteriography in the case of knee dislocation, is crucial. Prompt treatment consisting of closed or open reduction of the disloca tions is necessary. Additional treatment involving knee ligament recon struction is warranted to maximize knee function in healthy, active pa tients. Simultaneous occurrence of ipsilateral hip and knee dislocatio ns is a particularly morbid injury. We report such a case to emphasize that early, aggressive treatment and extensive physical therapy can r esult in a functional and painless lower extremity.