Septic arthritis of the hip in children

Abstract

A retrospective study of 22 cases of septic arthritis of the hip joints in children was carried out at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University during 1982-1987.  The purpose of this communication is to present the results of the treatment and to find the risk factors relating to prognosis.  The treatment consisted of intravenous antimicrobial drugs, arthrotomy and Buck’s Skin traction, followed by physical therapy.  Follow up was made periordically for more than one year (mean 3.2 years).  The results : 4 cases were classified as good, 10 fair and 8 poor.  The prognosis was related to the duration of symptoms until treatment.  Favorable outcome can be predicted if diagnosis is made early and treatment started promptly.