Arthroscopy for hip septic arthritis in children.

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroscopy for treatment of septic arthritis in children has previously been reported with excellent short-term results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of hip arthroscopy for hip septic arthritis (HSA) in paediatric patients.

HYPOTHESIS: Arthroscopy still is a useful tool in the treatment of HSA, and may be superior to simple hip aspiration.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Twelve patients with a median age of 6 years, with community-acquired infections, were diagnosed as HSA. All of them were treated using arthroscopic drainage. The duration of symptoms at presentation were a median of 3,5 days (2-20). In the younger patients (<8 years), hip joint distension was used instead of hip traction. At final check-up, the Hip Harris Score (HHS) was used and a radiographic study done.

RESULTS

Two patients required a repeat arthroscopy. All, except for one patient, achieved excellent clinical results. Two patients presented radiological changes at the last check-up. The poor results were related to late presentation for medical treatment. There was no difference between early and late results.

DISCUSSION: Hip arthroscopy for child HSA is a feasible technique even for the youngest patients, moreover the positive clinical results initially obtained are maintained over time.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: retrospective series.