Treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip by the Pavlik harness.

128 hips in 100 patients with congenital dislocation and subluxation of the hip were reviewed to discuss the clinical problems. All of them were initially treated with the Pavlik harness.Following conclusions were obtained through this study.(1) All but 8 acetabulums developed into normal shape within 4 months after fitting the harness, so that 4 months is thought to be enough time to wear the Pavlik harness.(2) Wearing the harness more than 3 weeks without any reduction may be not only useless but also harmful, so that are recommended other methods including refitting the harness after short waiting period.(3) It is difficult to know the incidence of avascular necrosis of the femoral head clinically, however, apparent swelling around the inguinal region may indicate the occurrence of avascular necrosis of the femoral head. It may be one of the important steps for preventing this serious complication to decrease the abduction in flexion position after onset of this clinical sign.