[Open post-traumatic anterior luxation of the hip in children. Apropos of a case and review of the literature]

Abstract

Introduction: Anterior open traumatic dislocation of the hip in children is rare.

Materials and methods: We report the case of a child aged 9 years, who presented following a motor vehicle accident an anterior open dislocation of the left hip associated with a fracture separation of the trochanter, a fracture of the homolateral humerus and a fracture of the contralateral femur. He was treated by open reduction of the dislocation and pinning of the various fractures.

Results: After 15 months functional result of the hip was good. The radiograms showed early signs of necrosis of the femoral head.

Discussion: The treatment consisted of emergency reduction of the dislocation. Despite this treatment, a review of the literature showed that necrosis of the femoral head is still frequent.

Conclusion: Anterior open dislocation of the hip is a severe disease in the child and its prognosis becomes severe with the opening and the association with a fracture.