Hip disorders in children requiring urgent surgical treatment

There are a limited number of disorders affecting the hip in children that demand urgent surgical treatment. Slipped capital epiphysis is the most frequently encountered. Fractures of the femoral neck, although less common, endanger the viability of the femoral head. A number of musculoskeletal infections, including septic arthritis, osteomyelitis of the proximal femur, pyomyositis and necrotizing fasciitis, present diagnostic challenges. Any of these conditions can cause irreparable harm that can be influenced by prompt, accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical and surgical treatment. Traumatic pelvic injuries requiring surgery are not discussed in this review.