The outcome of idiopathic chondrolysis in South Africa has been reported as a progressive downhill course resulting in a painful, stiff hip (Jones 1971, Sparks&Dall 1982). The cause of the disease remains unknown. Theories suggested are mechanical (decreased movement with loss of synovial nutrition; increased joint pressure) and an auto-immune response in genetically predisposed individuals. Our experience with continuous passive motion (CPM) and anti-inflammatory treatment has been disappointing. In order to improve our understanding of the disease and our results, we prospectively studied 5 consecutive patients. All the patients had a subtotal capsulectomy (Roy&Crawford 1988) to relieve intra-articular pressure and correction of the flexion and abduction deformities. Post-operative treatment was with anti-inflammatories and CPMPurpose
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