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How is developmental dysplasia of the hip diagnosed?

Babies are routinely examined at birth for developmental dysplasia of the hip. The baby lays on their back and the legs are rotated to test hip joint mobility. Each hip is examined separately. The diagnostic test for older infants and young children involves the child laying on their back, with their feet flat on the doctor's couch and their knees bent. If one knee is lower than the other, this may indicate a dislocated hip on the lower side. Imaging scans, such as ultrasound or X-ray, may be used to confirm the diagnosis in cases of high risk factors or positive clinical examination findings.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Developmental dysplasia of the hip refers to a range of conditions that can affect the development of the hip in infants or young children. Other names can also be used to describe this condition, including congenital dysplasia of the hip, or …

What are the symptoms of developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Developmental dysplasia of the hip generally only affects one side of the body and is not usually associated with pain. During routine examination at birth, medical professionals look for: an inability to move the thigh outward …

What causes developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Factors that can put a baby at higher risk of having developmental dysplasia of the hip include: A family history of the condition; Breech presentation; Neuromuscular disease such as spina bifida; Low amniotic fluid volume; Multiple …

How is developmental dysplasia of the hip treated?

For treatment of babies up to the age of six months, a Pavlik harness is used to hold their hips in place. This has a very high level of success. The hip may also be manipulated into the correct position, which is then held by a spica …

Can developmental dysplasia of the hip be cured?

Most babies born with developmental dysplasia of the hip can be successfully treated without recurrence of hip problems later in their life. But in some cases, they may develop arthritis, in their affected joint, later in life.

Will developmental dysplasia of the hip clear on its own?

The type of treatment required for developmental dysplasia will depend up on the age of the child and the severity of their dysplasia, but only very mild cases will clear on their own as the baby develops and their joints mature.

How serious is developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Most cases of developmental dysplasia can be effectively treated with either bracing, casting or surgery. However, if not treated, developmental dysplasia of the hip can lead to: Avascular necrosis of the hip, and subsequently arthritis of …

How common is developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Hip instability, which includes developmental dysplasia, is estimated to affect about 4 to 20 babies per 1,000 births.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 20 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1211 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Failure to thrive

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