Traumatic hip dislocation in pediatric patients

Abstract

Traumatic hip dislocations constitute approximately 5% of all pediatric dislocations and typically result from high-energy trauma. However, pediatric hip dislocations can also occur as a result of minor energy due to flexibility of the joint structures of the immature hip. Children with a posteriorly dislocated hip present with the injured hip in flexion, adduction and internal rotation. Spontaneous relocation of hip dislocation is frequent and a thorough physical examination of the whole lower extremity is always required to reduce the chance of missing hip dislocation/subluxation. Dislocated hips should be emergently repositioned under general anesthesia. MRI is indicated after reduction and in patients after spontaneous relocation if labral interposition is suspected in plain radiographs.