Idiopathic Chondrolysis of the Hip in Two Adolescent Girls After Skeletal Maturity: A Report with Review of the Literature

Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip (ICH) joint is rare after skeletal maturity. This study aimed to describe two cases of ICH in adolescent girls after skeletal maturity. The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of the clinical features, investigations, and management of two adolescent girls with ICH: a 16-year-old with bilateral hip involvement and an 18-year-old with unilateral hip involvement. Both of them presented with pain and limitation of hip movement. There was apparent lengthening, pelvic obliquity, and muscle wasting. The X-ray showed severe narrowing of the joint space consistent with ICH. This was managed with traction, analgesics, and a short course of steroids. A subtotal capsulectomy was subsequently performed. Both patients experienced symptom relief and an increase in the range of movement. In conclusion, ICH is diagnosed by excluding other causes of painful hips in children. It has characteristic clinical and radiological features. Traction and analgesics can provide short-term pain relief. Subtotal capsulectomy can improve the range of movement.