CONCLUSION
The femoral trial head often can be quickly and easily recovered; however, trial component recovery can sometimes be more complicated. Loss of the trial femoral head could potentially occur during dislocation, reduction, or any of the trial positions. An example of a more complicated recovery is when the femoral trial head is lost into the retroperitoneal space, which could occur when trialing the hip in extension to assess the anterior stability of the hip. Loss of the femoral trial head is an avoidable occurrence, and it has the potential to cause a number of complications as well as the need for additional incisions/surgery to retrieve the femoral trial head. The subsequent issues that could arise after loss occurs can not only lead to extensive surgical complications, but can also foster patient dissatisfaction regarding surgical outcomes. Therefore, consistent attempts to utilize preventative techniques are essential. As discussed, simple measures such as placement of a suture through the apical hole of the trial component and adequate communication between those involved in reduction and trialing maneuvers, can serve to avert femoral trial head loss.