title: Primary anterior congenital dislocation of the hip in infancy.
abstract: Primary anterior congenital dislocation of the hip can be diagnosed in infancy as an entity distinct from the more common posterior dislocation. Anterior dislocations are characterized by a visible and palpable fullness in the femoral triangle, marked limitation of abduction, a severe pelvic tilt or obliquity, marked apparent shortening of the linb on the involved side, absence of telescoping, and a rest position of external rotation. Conservative treatment is recommended. An abduction splint should be used to minimize the adduction contracture before a closed reduction is performed under general anesthesia. The position of a stable reduction is one of flexion, abduction, and internal rotation. Immobilization in a spica cast is required for six or seven months. Most patients will require a derotation osteotomy for correction of anteversion of the femoral neck during this time.
mesh_terms: D002370:Casts, Surgical; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006618:Hip Dislocation, Congenital / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010027:Osteotomy; D013165:Splints