[Congenital anterior dislocation of the hip]

An apparently congenital antero-superior hip dislocation is identified during surgery. With reference to this case, three possible clinical courses for congenital hip dislocations are outlined: As a rule full recovery is most frequent. However, a posterior dislocation which is persistent tends to become postero-superior upon weight-bearing. Anterior dislocations as well as antero-superior subluxation appear to be rather common. Both pathology and the CAT scan attest to this fact. Extension, which is a true dislocating position for a retracted hip in adduction anc rotated externally, is probably responsible for such an evolution. Anterior dislocation and especially antero-superior subluxation are frequent findings which can be explained anatomically. The eventual complications of the antero-superior wall of the acetabulum resulting from these, will be the objective of most of the usual treatments for residual hip dysplasia.