Salter procedure in congenital dislocation of the hip.

In a clinical and radiological study of 39 patients (43 hips) with congenital dislocation of the hip who were treated by a combined open reduction and innominate osteotomy, the success rate of a properly performed Salter procedure, the failed cases, and their reconstruction are described. The difficulty of this operation if not done strictly according to Salter's principles is stressed. We had 68.5% excellent and good results in children 1 1/2-4 years of age. Many failed procedures were salvaged when indicated by an open reduction followed after 6 weeks by a varus derotation femoral osteotomy. The Salter procedure should be done only after serious consideration. In our series, it was not easy even for surgeons with extensive experience.