Developmental hip dysplasia

Developmental Hip Dysplasia (DHD), also known as Hip Dysplasia, is a condition where the hip joint does not properly form in babies and young children. It is a common musculoskeletal disorder in infants. This condition can range from a slight abnormality, which might not cause any symptoms, to a significant malformation that leads to hip dislocation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing long-term issues such as hip pain, limping, and osteoarthritis in the affected hip.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Developmental Hip Dysplasia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include:

• Family history of the condition
• Female sex
• Firstborn status
• Breech presentation during pregnancy
• Low levels of amniotic fluid during pregnancy

Symptoms

Symptoms of Developmental Hip Dysplasia can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the age of the child. In infants, signs may include:

• Legs of different lengths
• Uneven skin folds on the thighs
• Less mobility or flexibility on one side

In older children and adults, symptoms may include:

• Hip pain
• Limping
• Hip joint instability

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of Developmental Hip Dysplasia is crucial for effective treatment. Screening methods include:

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Ultrasound imaging for infants
• X-ray imaging for older children and adults

Treatment

Treatment options for Developmental Hip Dysplasia depend on the age of the patient and the severity of the condition. They may include:

• Pavlik harness for infants, which helps in positioning the hip in the socket
• Closed reduction and casting
• Surgical interventions for more severe cases or older children

Prevention

While not all cases of Developmental Hip Dysplasia can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk, such as avoiding tight swaddling of infants' legs.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and treatment, most children with Developmental Hip Dysplasia can lead normal, active lives without long-term hip problems.