During a total hip replacement, the surgeon takes a posterior approach. Which muscle is the primary rotator cuff equivalent of the hip that must be carefully repaired to prevent postoperative dislocation?

• A Gluteus maximus
• B Gluteus medius and minimus
• C Piriformis and short external rotators ✓
• D Iliopsoas

Explanation

In the posterior approach to the hip, the piriformis, obturator internus, superior and inferior gemelli, and quadratus femoris (the short external rotators) are detached from the greater trochanter to access the joint. These muscles form the posterior dynamic stabilizers of the hip analogous to the rotator cuff of the shoulder. Careful repair of this 'posterior capsule–external rotator' complex after arthroplasty significantly reduces the risk of posterior dislocation.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.