[The role of the ossific nucleus in the treatment of developmental dislocation of the hip joint].

The aim of the study was to compare long-term radiological results and appearance of avascular necrosis in hips with and without ossific nucleus of femoral head at the beginning of treatment. We retrospectively reviewed radiographs of 155 hips in 107 children treated for developmental dislocation of the hip. The age of children at the onset of treatment was 14.2 months. Minimal age at last follow-up was 14 years. Statistical analysis showed no correlation between presence or size of ossific nucleus and avascular necrosis of femoral head or final radiological outcomes. We do not recommend delay in the treatment of dislocated joint on the bases of presence and size of ossific nucleus. This delay may result in lost of optimal time for remodeling of affected hip joint.