LeggCalvéPerthesKrankheit

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a childhood hip disorder that occurs when blood supply to the ball of the hip joint, called the femoral head, is temporarily interrupted. This interruption causes the bone tissue in the femoral head to die, a process known as avascular necrosis. Without adequate blood supply, the femoral head can flatten and become deformed.

The exact cause of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is unknown, but it is believed to be multifactorial. It most commonly affects children between the ages of 4 and 10 years, with boys being affected more often than girls. Symptoms typically include a limp, pain in the hip, thigh, or knee, and a reduced range of motion in the affected hip. The onset of symptoms is usually gradual.

Diagnosis is made through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. The disease usually affects one hip, but in some cases, both hips can be involved. The natural course of the disease involves several stages, from the initial avascular necrosis to fragmentation, healing, and remodeling of the femoral head.

Treatment aims to keep the femoral head contained within the hip socket and to minimize deformity. Options range from conservative management, such as activity modification and physical therapy, to surgical interventions in more severe cases. The goal is to promote proper healing and remodeling of the femoral head to allow for a functional hip joint and prevent or minimize long-term complications like osteoarthritis. The prognosis varies depending on the child's age at onset and the severity of the condition.