Use of Arthroscopy in Treatment of Acute Pediatric Septic Hip Infection

Arthroscopic Versus Open Management of Acute Pediatric Septic Hip Infection: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Acute septic hip infection in pediatric population is a true orthopedic surgical emergency that require early diagnosis and prompt management. Open surgical debridement and drainage of the hip through lateral approach is the gold standard method of treatment. Usage of hip arthroscopy in the treatment of such condition has been in clinical practice for more than 30 years. However, literature is still lacking in actual prospective comparison about the outcome of both methods.

The study will divide the children presented with acute septic hip infection into two groups; the control group in which the child will undergo traditional open surgical debridement and drainage of the hip via lateral approach, and the intervention group in which arthroscopic drainage and debridement of the hip will be done. The outcomes of both methods will be recorded and compared. The research hypothesis is that arthroscopic management of acute pediatric septic hip infection is as effective as open surgery; with fewer complications and faster recovery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 10 months - 14 years _unilateral or bilateral acute septic hip arthritis

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children with pre-existing other pathology of the affected hip, whether he / she has surgery for management of this pathology or not.

  • Patients whose parents refuse to participate in the study