Cheilectomy of the hip in children

Cheilectomy of the hip is a salvage operation for patients with pain and limitation of motion caused by a mechanical blockage of an abnormally shaped femoral head. Eight patients ranging in age from 8 to 15 years were retrospectively reviewed in order to evaluate the intermediate-term results of cheilectomy to address the separate problems of pain, range of motion, and function. A mean follow-up of 5 years is reported. Clinical records and radiographs were analyzed. All patients were found to have short-term relief of pain and an increase in hip motion. Six of the eight patients regressed in terms of increased pain and loss of range of motion 2-4 years after cheilectomy. Children with an abnormally shaped femoral head causing pain and limitation of motion can benefit for a short time from cheilectomy, even if the physes are closed.