The correction of leg-length discrepancy after treatment in developmental dysplasia of the hip by using a percutaneous epiphysiodesis

Abstract

The aims of this study were to determine factors that cause a leg-length discrepancy (LLD) to the extent that correction is indicated after treatment in developmental dysplasia of the hip and determine whether the LLD may be treated with a percutaneous epiphysiodesis. Twelve children were included in this study. The factors which caused LLD were avascular necrosis, femoral shortening and varus at reduction, and septic arthritis. Percutaneous epiphysiodesis of the contralateral limb reduced the mean predicted LLD from 3.8 to 1.2 cm at maturity. We concluded that LLD (>2.5 cm) might result from complications of developmental dysplasia of the hip and these patients can be treated with a percutaneous epiphysiodesis.