ENLmedical.com: Conditions And Concerns: Medical Encyclopedia: Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Causes and Risks:
The disorder causes a flattening of the top of the femur (the ball of the head of the femur). Usually just 1 leg is affected. The blood flow to the femur is interrupted, and the tip of the bone dies over a period of 1 to 3 weeks. A new blood supply causes new bone cells to appear in the region over the next 6 to 12 months. New bone then replaces the old bone within 2 to 3 years. It occurs most frequently in boys 4 to 10 years old and tends to occur in families.

Prevention:
unknown

Symptoms:

knee pain (may be the only symptom, initially)
persistent thigh pain
atrophy of muscles in the upper thigh
slight shortening of the leg or legs of unequal length (asymmetry)
hip stiffness restricting movement in the hip
difficulty walking ( gait difficulty ), limp with walking
limited range of motion

Signs and Tests:
A physical examination shows decreased hip motion, and a hip X-ray or pelvis X-ray is consistent with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.

Treatment:
The aim of treatment is to protect the bone and joint from further stress and injury while the healing process takes place. Bedrest may be indicated during the initial phase. An appliance such as a brace, cast, or splint to immobilize the hip position may be used while bone regrowth takes place.

Prognosis:
The outcome is usually good with treatment; most bone will heal without any resulting deformity.

Complications:
Osteoarthritis may develop later in life.

Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop.