Dislocation of Large Diameter Metal-On-Metal Bearings : An Indicator of Metal Reaction?

We report 3 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) using large diameter metal-on-metal bearing. These patients initially presented with pain but went on to develop dislocation of the THA while awaiting investigations. Any pain following metal-on-metal bearing THA should be taken seriously and should trigger investigations to identify a metal reaction. If left untreated, these reactions can cause progressive soft tissue necrosis leading to instability. These patients should be considered for early revision of the bearing surface to prevent further soft tissue damage.