pediatrics
Femoral Torsion (Twisting)
Introduction
The femoral head may be twisted at birth. (See also Introduction to Congenital Craniofacial and Musculoskeletal Abnormalities .) Femoral torsion is common among neonates and may be either Internal (femoral anteversion): Knees pointing toward each other with toes in External (femoral retroversion): Knees pointing in opposite directions At birth, internal torsion can be as much as 40°and still be normal. External torsion can also be prominent at birth and still be normal. Femoral torsion is recognized by laying the child prone on the examining table. The hips are rotated externally and internally. Limitation of internal rotation indicates femoral anteversion, whereas limitation of external rotation indicates femoral retroversion. 