[Directional osteotomy of the femur in the bedridden patient with cerebral palsy].

Wind-blown or scissor deformity of the hip in severely spastic bed-ridden patients with cerebral palsy requires surgical correction. The methods generally used involve a number of disadvantages which are analysed. Corrective sub-trochanteric osteotomy following extensive soft tissue release is the method of choice in this exceptional situation. The treatment of six patients since 1982 has emphasised the good tolerance of this operation by patients who are frail and suffer from multiple handicaps and the reliability of the results obtained in the relief of pain, the improved ease of nursing management and attention to toilet and, in certain cases, the ability to sit.