Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH): an evolving science

• Published in: Archives of disease in childhood Vol. 83; no. 3; p. 202
• Main Author: BAUCHNER, H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England BMJ Publishing Group LTD 01.09.2000; BMJ Group
• Subjects: Genetics; Guidelines; Hip Dislocation, Congenital - diagnosis; Hip joint; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Infants; Medical Evaluation; Newborn babies; Physical Examinations; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Research Reports; Transatlantic Topic; Young Children
• DOI: 10.1136/adc.83.3.202
• ISSN: 0003-9888

Highlights include the following: DDH refers to a spectrum of disease, including hips that are unstable, subluxated, dislocated, and/or have malformed acetabula The incidence of true dislocation is approximately 1-2/1000 Girls, infants with a positive family history of DDH, and infants in breech presentation are at increased risk If a positive Ortolani or Barlow sign is found on newborn examination, the infant should be referred to an orthopaedic specialist (no ultrasonography is necessary) If the newborn exam is equivocal (soft click, mild asymmetry) then a follow up hip examination at two weeks is recommended If results of the physical examination at two weeks are positive, referral to an orthopaedic specialist is recommended Physical examination should be performed regularly during scheduled routine visits.