Perthes Disease
Perthes disease, also known as Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, is a childhood condition that affects the hip joint. At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Perthes disease, providing comprehensive care to children to manage symptoms and preserve hip function.
Perthes disease occurs when there is a temporary loss of blood supply to the ball-shaped head of the femur (thigh bone) at the hip joint. This loss of blood supply can lead to the death of bone tissue in the affected area, causing the bone to become weak and susceptible to deformation. Over time, as the bone heals, it may become misshapen and irregular, leading to hip pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking.
This condition typically affects children between the ages of 4 and 8, although it can occur in older children as well. The exact cause of Perthes disease is not fully understood, but factors such as genetics, trauma, or reduced blood flow to the hip may contribute to its development.
Symptoms of Perthes disease may include hip pain, limping, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the affected hip joint. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans to assess the extent of bone damage and monitor disease progression.
Treatment of Perthes disease aims to relieve symptoms, preserve hip function, and prevent long-term complications. Conservative treatment options may include rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and the use of braces or casts to support the hip joint and promote proper alignment during the healing process.
In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address severe deformities or persistent symptoms. Surgical procedures for Perthes disease may include hip osteotomy (surgically repositioning the hip joint), femoral or pelvic osteotomy (reshaping the hip socket or thigh bone), or hip arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery to remove damaged tissue or bone fragments).
At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, our team of pediatric orthopedic specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care to children with Perthes disease. We work closely with each child and their family to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and goals, with the aim of preserving hip function and improving quality of life.
