[Pre-arthrosis of the hip in the adult population]

In order to identify the presence of minor anatomical deformities responsible for the incongruity of the hip joint which causes the degenerative changes, the radiographies of the hips in 332 normal adults were reviewed. The deformities included the acetabular dysplasia and the tilt deformity of the femoral head as the residual condition of epiphyseolysis in adolescence. Using the Wiberg's CE angle acetabular dysplasia was found in 8.6% of cases: the tilt deformity, using the technique by Murray, was confirmed in 9.8%. It is concluded that these minor abnormalities can be recognized from more accurate examination of pelvic radiographies and their presence should indicate the joint incongruity and potential osteoarthritis changes. Earlier recognition of these deformities may permit earlier and simple operative measures and the arrest of the decline of the joint.