[Growth disorders of the upper end of the femur following treatment of congenital hip luxation].

From approximately 2,500 cases of treated congenital dislocation of the hip, the authors have selected 82 cases with 100 hips showing disturbance of the superior epiphysis and metaphysis of the femur. These have been observed after several types of treatment - napkins in abduction, abduction harnesses, abduction splintage, closed reduction by Lorenz technique, progressive reduction by Somerville technique or open reduction. The risk factors have been analysed in 22 hips treated by progressive reduction. It is concluded that changes in the metaphysis and in the growth plate are the main cause of late abnormality. A classification of these abnormalities is proposed to aid diagnosis and for the institution of earlier treatment. In severe cases, combined pelvic and femoral osteotomy give the most satisfactory results.