Developmental dysplasia of hip: Information for parents

DDH (Developmental dysplasia of hip):

    DDH (Developmental dysplasia of hip) commonly called as Congenital (present at birth) dislocation of hip is a condition affecting the hip joint in children. In this condition, the ball of the thigh bone (femoral head) lies outside the cup (acetabulum) of the pelvic bone joint. This leads to an abnormal walking pattern and shortening of the affected limb which is usually noticed by the parents when the child begins to walk i.e at around 12-18 months of age. If untreated it progresses to early Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease leading to destruction of the joint cartilage and bone leading to pain and worsening of symptoms. 

    

    DDH can be diagnosed by the Paediatric Orthopaedic surgeon by simple clinical tests and ultrasound of the hip at birth. Early recognition of this condition and timely intervention can prevent untoward complications in the future. In early stages of treatment, the baby wears a harness prescribed by the surgeon. The hip is then serially evaluated clinically and radiologically (Ultrasound or radiographs). In case of failure of reduction or late presentation the child may require surgical reduction of the hip under anaesthesia. Following surgery the child will be placed in a hip spica (a plaster cast extending from the abdomen to the legs). The child has to be followed up at regular intervals till adolescence.