Hip Dysplasia

Overview

Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition characterized by an improperly formed hip joint. Specifically, the hip socket (acetabulum) fails to fully cover the ball portion (femoral head) of the upper thighbone. This anatomical anomaly can lead to joint instability, pain, and impaired mobility. Most individuals with hip dysplasia are born with the condition, but it can also develop later in life.

Types of Hip Dysplasia

1. Subluxatable: The hip joint remains partially dislocated, with the ball loosely positioned in the socket.
2. Dislocatable: The hip joint allows the ball to be pushed out of the socket during physical examination.
3. Dislocated: The ball of the hip joint is completely outside the socket.

Causes of Hip Dysplasia

• Developmental Factors: Hip dysplasia primarily occurs during fetal development when the hip socket is shallower than at any other time. Factors contributing to congenital hip dysplasia include:
  • First pregnancies
  • Large birth weight
  • Breech presentation
• Acquired Factors:
  • Improper swaddling practices
  • Restrictive baby seats
  • Use of cradle boards that lock the hip joint
  • Certain methods of carrying babies

Risk Factors of Hip Dysplasia

• Ethnicity: More common in Native Americans, Lapps, and Sami people
• Genetics: Beukes familial dysplasia maps to a region on chromosome 4
• Family history

Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia

Preventions of Hip Dysplasia

• Congenital Hip Dysplasia: Not preventable
• Acquired Forms:
  • Practice hip-healthy swaddling
  • Choose baby products carefully

Diagnosis of Hip Dysplasia

• Physical Examination: Assess hip joint alignment
• Imaging Tests:
  • Ultrasound (for infants)
  • MRI (detect cartilage damage)
  • X-ray (assess dysplasia severity)

Treatment for Hip Dysplasia

1. Bracing and Casting: For infants and children
2. Arthroscopy: Surgical visualization and treatment inside the joint
3. Periacetabular Osteotomy: Reposition the socket for better alignment
4. Hip Replacement: In severe cases
5. Pavlik Harness Placement: Secure baby’s hips in proper alignment
6. Hip Abduction Bracing: Encourage normal hip development
7. Spica Casting: Maintain corrected hip position after surgery

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek medical attention if you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of hip dysplasia.