Developmental Dysplasia Of The Hip

​What Is Developmental Dysplasia Of The Hip (DDH)?

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a term commonly used in infants who have instability, or looseness, of the hip joint. The hip socket may be shallower than normal and not fully formed at birth. Therefore the hip does not fit properly and securely into the hip socket. The hip is either described as subluxable or dislocatable. 

• A subluxable hip is where the ball of the hip joint is able to move freely and loosely in the socket.
• A dislocatable hip is where the ball of hip joint slides in and out of the socket.

Signs and Symptoms

• Clicky hip / stiff hip joint
• Leg length difference
• Skin folds may be uneven on their bottom
• Limping in ambulation, with / without pain, to the affected side

​Risk Factors

• Female
• Breech
• Packing disorder refers to: first born baby; big baby >4kg at birth; decreased fluid space surrounding baby
  

Complications

• Leg length difference
• Gait anomalies

​Tests and Diagnosis

• Ultrasound scan
• Orthopaedic assessment
• X-ray

Normally the child will undergo non-surgical treatment to maintain the position of the hip in a correct alignment.

An abduction splint or Pavlik Harness helps to keep the hips in the correct position. The splint / harness has to be worn for about 3 to 6 months. Your child will be reviewed regularly during this time to ensure that the splint fits well.

If the hip does not reduce with the use of splint / harness, surgical methods may be used to reduce the hip. After surgery, a plaster cast will be used to maintain the correct position.