ABSTRACT
Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a spectrum of abnormalities ranging from mild acetabular dysplasia to irreducible dislocation. There is probably some, at least transient, abnormality in up to 10% of females but most are amenable to reassurance alone. In the subluxed position, the labrum is flattened by the femoral head. Dislocation of the femoral head leads to stretching of the inferior capsule and adductors. The use of multiplanar and dynamic ultrasound enables visualization of the femoral head within the acetabulum and assessment of the shape and depth of the acetabular cup. Treatment involves maintaining hip abduction through the use of a brace; the most commonly used is the Pavlik harness. Poor positioning, prolonged treatment and lack of parental compliance are associated with treatment failure. Closed reduction is performed by longitudinal traction, flexion and abduction of the hip with anterior translation. Reduction is confirmed with dynamic arthrogram.
