Conservative Management of Late-Onset Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease in a 10-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

Abstract

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a childhood condition characterized by avascular necrosis of the femoral head, with a poorer prognosis in children over 8 years. This case report describes a 10-year-old boy presenting with persistent left thigh pain, limp, and limited hip motion following a fall 3 months earlier. Imaging revealed osteonecrosis of the left femoral head with degenerative changes. Despite surgical intervention being the standard for late-onset LCPD, the patient was managed conservatively using bilateral skin traction and a Petrie’s cast due to financial constraints. Follow-up monthly for 6 months showed significant improvement, highlighting conservative treatment's potential in resource-limited settings.