Leg length inequality following total hip replacement is the leading cause of patient dissatisfaction and subsequent litigation after total hip replacement. A change in the total offset of the hip (lateral translation of the femur relative to the pelvis) may also cause significant discomfort and hip instability. Before surgery, patients are informed that their leg may be lengthened and a shoe lift may be required in the opposite shoe to equalize the leg lengths. Although much less frequent, the leg can accidentally be shortened following total hip replacement. In one recent study, 62% of patients had a mean leg lengthening of 9 mm and one third of these patients complained about this lengthening.