This retrospective study looked at 58 children diagnosed with Waldenström stage III Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). Researchers compared the results of children who underwent containment surgery to those who did not. The study followed the surgical group for an average of nearly 12 years and the non-surgical group for about 7 years.
The results showed a trend toward more favorable hip shape in the surgical group. Specifically, the surgical group had significantly better measurements for certain hip angles, such as the modified Tönnis angle and the acetabular head index. However, when looking at the overall proportion of acceptable outcomes, the difference between the two groups did not reach statistical significance.
Because the difference in acceptable outcomes was not statistically significant, it is important to view these findings as an association rather than a proven advantage. The study suggests a possible link between surgery and better hip development, but more research is needed to confirm these results. Readers should discuss specific treatment options and expected outcomes with a specialist.