[The effect of absent ossific nucleus of the femoral head on results of surgical treatment for developmental dislocation of the hip].

We have studied retrospectively 33 hips in 26 children at an average of 9 years 5 months after simultaneous open reduction and Dega transiliac osteotomy for developmental dislocation of the hip (DDH). All children were younger than 2 years of life at the time of surgery. The hips were divided into two groups: with present and with absent ossific nucleus of the femoral head on preoperative radiographs. Clinical and radiographic results have been assessed in both groups. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups. We conclude, that absent ossific nucleus of the femoral head as a sole reason should not delay surgery for DDH.