What is the primary treatment for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease?

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a condition where the blood supply to the femoral head is temporarily disrupted, leading to avascular necrosis of the bone. The primary treatment focuses on minimizing the risk of further damage to the hip joint and promoting proper regeneration of the bone.

Bracing, particularly with a containment strategy, is often used to maintain the femoral head within the acetabulum. This helps to preserve the spherical shape of the femoral head as it heals. This non-invasive approach is important as it allows for continued mobility and activity without placing undue stress on the affected hip.

In cases where bracing alone does not provide sufficient containment or if the disease is in a more advanced stage, surgical intervention may be necessary. This can involve procedures to realign the hip joint or to enhance containment of the femoral head.

Given the nature of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a combination of bracing and potential surgical options represents the most comprehensive approach to treatment, addressing both immediate protective needs and long-term outcomes. This multifaceted strategy is why the selected answer emphasizes both bracing and the possibility of surgery.