The Scottish incidence of traumatic dislocation of the hip in childhood.

Traumatic dislocation of the hip was reviewed over a 20-year period in Scotland. The incidence of the condition was 0.8 cases per million children annually. Posterior dislocation predominates and the presence of an associated femoral fracture must always be considered. Avascular necrosis developed in two of the 15 cases (13.3%) and is more likely if the injury is severe or if there is an appreciable delay in reduction.