Ossification centers of the hip

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Listed below are the ossification centers related to the hip joint:

Pelvic
  • ilium: 8 weeks in utero
  • ischium: 4-6 months in utero
  • pubis: 4-6 months in utero
  • acetabulum (two centers): puberty

The ilium, ischium and pubis all fuse at 7-9 years. Acetabulum fusion (i.e. replacement of triradiate cartilage) occurs at 20-25 years.

Proximal femur
  • shaft: 7 weeks in utero
  • femoral head: 4-6 months
  • greater trochanter: 2-4 years
  • lesser trochanter: puberty

All of the femoral ossification centers fuse between the ages of 14 and 18 years.