Soft tissue collagen in congenital dislocation of the hip. Biochemical studies of the ligamentum teres of the femur and the hip joint capsule.

Collagens of the ligamentum teres of the femur and the hip joint capsule of 14 patients with congenital dislocation of the hip (CDH) were studied biochemically. Collagen was a major component of these tissues. Solubility of collagen was reversely related to age except in two cases. Collagen of both ligamentum teres of the femur and hip joint capsule was composed of type I, III and V collagens except in three cases. In these three cases with nevus or general joint laxity, two additional collagenous components were also found. The ratios of type III collagen to type I collagen were increased in CDH except in one case with short stature. These abnormalities of collagen metabolism could be the underlying cause of CDH and other clinical symptoms in these patients.