Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip: management by subtotal capsulectomy and aggressive rehabilitation.

Three cases of idiopathic chondrolysis were treated by a subtotal circumferential capsulectomy with follow-up for 3 years and 1 month. Concomitant muscle releases were performed as necessary to relieve joint contractures. Surgery was followed by an aggressive rehabilitation effort. All patients were symptom-free and displayed an extremely satisfactory range of motion. Radiographs revealed reconstitution of the joint space in all cases. We believe that this aggressive management is well justified when one considers the results of previous published reports.