Traumatic hip dislocation in childhood. A report of 26 cases and review of the literature.

Twenty-six cases of traumatic hip dislocation in children are presented. Although closed reduction was achieved in most instances, open procedures had to be employed in two cases of soft tissue interposition and in a patient with ipsilateral fracture of the femoral shaft. In 16 patients, with a follow-up averaging 14 years, the incidence of complications (avascular necrosis, coxa magna and arthrosis) was significant. Factors predisposing to abnormal results were delayed reduction and severe trauma. Neither the method of immobilization nor the interval without weight-bearing over 4 weeks were of influence. Principles of treatment are suggested.