Anatomy and Physiology of the Pediatric Hip

Abstract

Pediatric hip conditions represent a great challenge for the practicing orthopaedic surgeon due to continual changes to the hip joint during postnatal development and maturation from infancy through adolescence. These conditions can be wide-ranging in regard to cause and consequence; however, a fundamental knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the pediatric hip joint is critical to guide clinical and surgical decision-making to optimize patient outcomes. Important considerations must be given to the vascular supply of both the femoral head and the acetabulum during surgical planning and during performance of the procedure in order to preserve the blood supply and prevent avascular necrosis-a potentially devastating iatrogenic complication. In-depth knowledge of normal hip joint anatomy and geometry is also crucial to provide insight into the impact any alterations may have during development, and for planning and executing reconstructive treatment options in abnormal hips.