- B J Vontobel: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Berne, Inselspital, Switzerland.
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head as a complication of a hip location that is caused by minor trauma and is promptly reduced is uncommon in young children. The incidence appears to be from 3% to 6% if reduction is performed within the first 4 h. However, if it does occur, a significant incidence of degenerative joint disease should be anticipated in the patient's later life. As a possible way of surgical treatment, an intertrochanteric and periacetabular osteotomy should be considered to minimise sequelae. Follow-up must be continued until skeletal maturity is reached.