Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Current concepts and controversies.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a common, controversial pediatric hip disorder. It is currently accepted that the disorder represents idiopathic avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) of the capital femoral epiphysis. Treatment by conservative or surgical containment is recommended primarily for older children with extensive femoral head involvement. The results of containment treatment indicate improved results over the natural history of the disease process.