Laser Doppler flowmetry during open reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip

Laser Doppler flowmetry was used intraoperatively to monitor femoral head perfusion during open reduction of 13 congenital hip dislocations in 11 patients. Laser Doppler determinations ranged from 12 to 400 mV before reduction and 30 to 300 mV after reduction. Three patients had magnitude changes in excess of 50%. One had increased perfusion, and two had decreased blood flow. Avascular necrosis of the hip occurred in one patient that was not predicted by laser Doppler flowmetry. Femoral head perfusion measured 175 mV for the dislocated hip and 180 mV after reduction of the femoral head and completion of the pelvic osteotomy. The authors conclude that laser Doppler flowmetry is not a reliable method for monitoring femoral head perfusion during open reduction of the hip for developmental hip dysplasia.