Results in the late treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip.

The results obtained in the treatment of seventeen cases of long established (more than six years) congenital dislocation of the hip are reported. They were followed up for one to five years after operation. The writers consider osteotomy to correct leg length discrepancy to be unnecessary. Triradial osteotomy of the pelvis ensures optimal epiphyseal coverage and permits moderate lengthening of the limb. In the writers' experience, osteochondrosis is not related to the type of osteotomy, nor to operations to produce leg lengthening; it can be avoided by the use of prolonged post-operative traction.