[The snapping hip. Late results of 24 surgical cases]

The sensation of a 'snapping hip' is due to a tight iliotibial band sliding abnormally over the greater trochanter during certain movements of the hip. Diagnosis is strictly by clinical examination. Radiographs and other investigations are unnecessary, expensive and may be psychologically harmful. We have assessed the results of operation in 35 such hips in 23 patients, reviewed at between 2 and 17 years. A cruciate incision was made in the iliotibial band over the greater trochanter, and the four flaps produced were sutured back on themselves, or to adjacent structures. The results were disappointing, with 30% of patients having a successful result, 30% a recurrence of symptoms and over 60% continuing to experience pain of a varying degree. In the majority of patients operation is not justified, but may be indicated if there is demonstrable abnormality, after trauma or in the presence of severe, intractable pain.