[Idiopathic coxa antetorta (antetorsion syndrome)]

Idiopathic anteversion of the femoral neck must be primarily considered as a variant of physiological development. Surgery should be discussed in extreme cases only. Indication for surgery is partly offset or becomes disputable by the ensuing complications, the questionable prophylaxis of arthrosis and the observed spontaneous regression. It is quite a problem for the doctor to take adequate care of the children and to calm the parents; he must under all circumstances try to postpone surgery up to the 10th year of life by regular outpatient follow-ups. Strengthening of the abductors of the hip is the only meaningful causal-conservative treatment measure. Surgery should be discussed during the 10th year of life while applying the most severe criteria; it should remain an exception and should be performed under optimal conditions only.