Early Loss of Hip Containment in a Child with Dysplasia Epiphysealis Hemimelica

Progressive loss of hip containment attributable to dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica of the right proximal femur and macrodactyly of the right second toe was diagnosed and monitored by radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging in a 7-year-old boy. The patient had early surgical correction including shortening osteotomy of the hypertrophic toe and partial resection of the involved superolateral femoral head-neck junction combined with a Pemberton-like acetabuloplasty. This treatment restored containment and function. At 4 years followup, the femoral head remained contained and the patient was participating fully in the activities of daily life for his age-group. A review of the literature suggests monitoring the hip with magnetic resonance imaging may allow early identification of a hip at risk for loss of containment. This treatment may save the hip from severe deformity and early secondary osteoarthritis.