The effect of early anterior approach open reduction with functional postoperative treatment on the early development of the acetabulum in CDH.

Abstract

Between 1980 and 1983, 30 anterior approach open reductions were performed on congenitally dislocated hips of 29 patients after unsuccessful conservative treatment; patients were between 6 and 18 months old. After the removal of the obstruction from the acetabulum, the reduction was performed with preservation of the limbus. Some part of the capsule was removed to constrict and tighten it and to prevent redislocation. This capsuloplasty demonstrates the success of a Pavlik harness and abduction splint postoperatively, without plaster fixation. The accelerated development of the acetabulum could be observed on radiograph by this functional treatment, compared to the control group treated with the usual hip spica postoperatively. The development of the acetabulum on the operated side almost equals the sound side within a year. If the operation was performed earlier, joint development would be quicker.