Endpoint: When revision arthroplasty is no longer an option

The volume of revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasing. While the tools to address these complex patients have improved over recent decades, hip reconstructive surgeons will no-doubt be confronted with difficult cases, and the consideration of salvage procedures must be undertaken. In the face of significant medical comorbidities, chronic infection, soft tissue concerns, and bone loss there comes a time when the risk of revision, both in terms of complication as well as poor outcome, becomes untenable. This article reviews the research surrounding the salvage options following failed THA, namely amputation, arthrodesis, resection arthroplasty, and benign neglect.