1. Aseptic necrosis of the head of the femur, following traumatic dislocation, is a serious disability. Its appearance should be looked for by means of repeated roentgenographic examinations at frequent and regular intervals.
2. In the five cases reported, clinical evidence of this complication appeared from two to five years after the initial trauma. For this reason, a traumatic dislocation should not be considered uncomplicated until at least five years after the injury.
3. If the bone changes are seen early, multiple drill holes into the head and neck of the femur may hasten reorganization of the necrotic head, with a minimum of arthritic changes. We have had no experience with this procedure, but suggest its use as a conservative measure.
4. Well-advanced cases are benefited by arthrodesis or arthroplasty, depending on the amount of destruction of the head of the femur in each case.