Abstract

Introduction: Traumatic posterior dislocation of the hip in children is an uncommon injury. Under 10 years of age it is often caused by a low-energy trauma such as typical child play. It requires urgent reduction to reduce chance of avascular necrosis.

Case report: A 9-year old boy was admitted after a fall from a trampoline. Clinical examination and radiographs revealed a left posterior hip dislocation without any associated fractures. Urgent closed reduction was performed within 6 hours resulting in a stable hip joint. Post-reduction radiographs and additional MRI showed a concentrically reduced hip. Skin traction was applied for 4 days and non-weightbearing suggested for 6 weeks.

Conclusion: Posterior traumatic hip dislocation in children is a rare urgency with favorable outcome if treated by quick reduction. Additional imaging is advised to guide adequate treatment.

Keywords: Pediatric traumatic hip dislocation; Imaging; Treatment; Avascular necrosis