[Osteochondritis dissecans of the hip in Legg-Perthes-Calve disease].

Osteochondritis dissecans in a few cases may complicate Perthes' disease. A review of the literature shows 27 published cases. The authors have personally observed 6 cases. The age of the patient was older than in most Perthes' disease. All were male. This condition is diagnosed by the presence of a persisting irregularity of the femoral head with abnormal texture. The clinical signs are not obvious except in cases of recurrent locking where there is a loose body. The avascular fragment is visible on standard radiographs and is best recognised by arthrography. Conservative treatment should be given when the disability is moderate. The loose body should be removed surgically when it is mobile, when it bulges into the joint space or when there are signs of early arthrosis.