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Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip – Part 1

Abstract

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition characterized by changes in joint formation within the last months of intrauterine life or the first months after birth. Developmental dysplasia of the hip presentation ranges from femoroacetabular instability to several stages of dysplasia up to complete dislocation. Early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment. Clinical screening, including appropriate maneuvers, is critical in newborns and subsequent examinations during the growth of the child.

Infants with suspected DDH must undergo an ultrasound screening, especially those with a breech presentation at delivery or a family history of the condition. A hip ultrasound within the first months, followed by pelvic radiograph at 4 or 6 months, determines the diagnosis and helps follow-up.

Treatment consists of concentric reduction and hip maintenance and stabilization with joint remodeling. The initial choices are flexion/abduction orthoses; older children may require a spica cast after closed reduction, with or without tenotomy. An open reduction also can be indicated. After 18 months, the choices include pelvic osteotomies with capsuloplasty and, eventually, acetabular and femoral osteotomies.

The follow-up of treated children must continue throughout their growth due to the potential risk of late dysplasia.

Keywords
developmental dsysplasia of the hip; hip dislocation, congenital; diagnosis; treatment

Resumo

O termo displasia do desenvolvimento quadril (DDQ) refere-se à condição na qual a articulação sofre alterações na sua formação durante os últimos meses da vida intrauterina ou nos primeiros meses após o nascimento. No espectro de apresentação, varia desde a instabilidade femuroacetabular, passando por estádios de displasia até a completa luxação. O diagnóstico precoce é fundamental para o sucesso do tratamento. A triagem através do exame clínico incluindo manobras apropriadas é imprescindível nos recém-nascidos e nas avaliações subsequentes durante o crescimento da criança.

O rastreamento ultrassonográfico é indicado nos bebês sob suspeita clínica e muito mais recomendável naqueles que tiveram apresentação pélvica para o parto ou que tenham antecedentes familiares. A ultrassonografia do quadril nos primeiros meses seguida da radiografia da bacia após o 4° ou 6° mês de vida são os exames que determinam o diagnóstico e auxiliam o seguimento.

O tratamento está baseado na obtenção de uma redução concêntrica e na manutenção e estabilização do quadril, propiciando a remodelação articular. Inicialmente, as órteses de flexão/abdução são a escolha; em crianças maiores pode ser necessário o uso de gesso após redução incruenta com ou sem tenotomia; redução aberta pode ser indicada e após os 18 meses as osteotomias pélvicas associadas a capsuloplastia e eventuais osteotomias acetabular e femoral.

Crianças tratadas devem ser acompanhadas durante todo o seu crescimento pelo eventual risco de displasias tardias.

Palavras-chave
displasia do desenvolvimento do quadril; luxação congênita de quadril; diagnóstico; tratamento

Introduction

In developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH),11 Musielak B, Idzior M, Jóźwiak M. Evolution of the term and definition of dysplasia of the hip - a review of the literature. Arch Med Sci 2015;11(05):1052–1057 different factors alter the development of a joint previously healthy during embryogenesis. These changes probably occur within the last months of intrauterine life or the first months after birth. The disease has a wide spectrum of presentation, ranging from instability with mild acetabular deficiency to complete joint dislocation.

Its dynamic feature causes pre- and postnatal clinical factors that influence its evolution, improving or worsening the condition. The success of the treatment fundamentally depends on early diagnosis, preferably performed up to the 4th month of life, and achieving concentric reduction and maintenance of the femoral head in the acetabulum.

Teratological congenital dislocations considered atypical are usually associated with syndromes, and their prognosis and treatment deserve an analysis from a different perspective.

Incidence

The incidence of DDH can range from 0.06 to 76.1 per 1,000 live births22 Loder RT, Skopelja EN. The epidemiologyand demographics of hip dysplasia. ISRN Orthop 2011;2011:238607 depending on ethnicity and the assessment method. Ultrasonographic studies describe a higher incidence compared with those based on clinical maneuvers alone. Another critical factor is the age of the child at evaluation. Although some neonatal instabilities resolve spontaneously,33 Barlow TG. Early diagnosis and treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip. Proc R Soc Med 1963;56(09):804–806 hips can become dysplastic over time. Therefore, we understand that a more precise distinction lowers the chance of overtreatment and increases the opportunity to start therapy at the appropriate time.

Unfortunately, Brazillacks specific data on DDH incidence. Guarniero et al.44 Guarniero R, Montenegro NB, Vieira PB, Peixinho M. Sinal de Ortolani: resultado do exame ortopétido em 9.171 recém-nascidos na Associaçäo Maternidade de Säo Paulo. Rev Bras Ortop 1988;23(05):125–128 reported an incidence of 5.01/1,000 using the clinical evaluation of the neonatal Ortolani sign in 9,171 children. Motta et al.55 Motta GGB, Chiovatto ARS, Chiovatto ED, Duarte ML, Rodrigues NVM, Iared W. Prevalence of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in a Maternity Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Rev Bras Ortop (Sao Paulo) 2021;56(05):664–670 described an incidence of 5.45% in neonatal ultrasound evaluation of 1,356 hips. These two studies were performed in maternity hospitals in the city of São Paulo.

Risk Factors

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is probably a disease of multifactorial origin, and we must consider some risk factors for investigation. However, remember that many children, even without defined or known risk factors, can present DDH.Therefore, a careful and accurate assessment, or at least a routine physical examination, is mandatory.

Risk factors include a breech fetal presentation, female gender, primiparous mothers, oligohydramnios, family history of DDH, congenital feet deformities (such as metatarsal adductus, calcaneovalgus feet, and congenital clubfoot), and congenital muscular torticollis.22 Loder RT, Skopelja EN. The epidemiologyand demographics of hip dysplasia. ISRN Orthop 2011;2011:238607, 66 Håberg Ø, Foss OA, Lian ØB, Holen KJ. Is foot deformity associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip? Bone Joint J 2020;102-B (11):1582–1586

The presence of more than one fetus may result in a phenomenon of uterine “agglomeration.” However, most of these children are born with a lower weight, which could reduce the impact of agglomeration. Even so, it is worth remembering that the risk is higher when one of the fetuses is in breech presentation.77 Oh EJ, Min JJ, Kwon SS, et al. Breech presentation in twins as a risk factor for developmental dysplasia of the hip. J Pediatr Orthop 2022;42(01):e55–e58 It appears that prematurity is neither a risk nor a protective factor.88 KoobS, Garbe W, BornemannR, Ploeger MM, Scheidt S, Gathen M, Placzek R. Is Prematurity a Protective Factor Against Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip? A Retrospective Analysis of 660 Newborns. Ultraschall Med 2022 Apr;43(02):177–180

Postnatal Factors

Hip positioning within the first few months of life can influence adequate joint development. Certain cultures position the lower limbs of infants in extension and adduction, limiting mobility and increasing the incidence of DDH.99 Sidharthan S, Kehoe C, Dodwell E. Post-Natal Positioning through Babywearing: What the Orthopaedic Surgeon Needs to Know. JPOSNA® 20202(3). Available from: https://www.jposna.org/ojs/index.php/jposna/article/view/131
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Ulzibaati et al.1010 Ulziibat M, Munkhuu B, Bataa AE, Schmid R, Baumann T, Essig S. Traditional Mongolian swaddling and developmental dysplasia of thehip:arandomizedcontrolled trial. BMCPediatr2021;21(01):450 studied the influence of traditional swaddling of newborns in Mongolia with lower limbs restriction in extension and adduction for 20 hours per day during a month. This practice resulted in delayed hip maturation and increased DDH risk. In contrast, cultures in which caregivers carry the infant closer to their bodies and with abducted hips seem to have a decreased incidence of DDH.99 Sidharthan S, Kehoe C, Dodwell E. Post-Natal Positioning through Babywearing: What the Orthopaedic Surgeon Needs to Know. JPOSNA® 20202(3). Available from: https://www.jposna.org/ojs/index.php/jposna/article/view/131
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The “M” positioning of the lower limbs within the first months of life in sling-type carriers with the infant facing the caregiver seems ideal for the healthy development of the hips. In addition, it allows an adequate positioning of the child’s pelvis and spine.99 Sidharthan S, Kehoe C, Dodwell E. Post-Natal Positioning through Babywearing: What the Orthopaedic Surgeon Needs to Know. JPOSNA® 20202(3). Available from: https://www.jposna.org/ojs/index.php/jposna/article/view/131
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Siddicky et al.1111 Siddicky SF, Wang J, Rabenhorst B, Buchele L, Mannen EM. Exploring infant hip position and muscle activity in common baby gear and orthopedic devices. J Orthop Res 2021;39(05):941–949 analyzed hip positioning and surface electromyography findings. They reported that a child in a flexible carrier, facing the caregiver, presents hips position and muscle activity similar to that observed with a Pavlik orthosis.

The correct use of slings, mainly in the first 100 days of life, the period of exterogestation, also results in other psychological and sensorial benefits. In these cases, asphyxia is a constant concern, especially in children with no cervical control, implying preventive measures such as correct cervical positioning, keeping the head above the tissue, and protecting the nose and mouth of any obstruction.1212 Moon RYTASK FORCE ON SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME. SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths: evidence base for 2016 updated recommendations for a safe infant sleeping environment. Pediatrics 2016;138(05):e20162940 Other complications can occur, including the possibility of caregiver fall and low back pain.

Ultrasound Screening

The universal ultrasound screening of newborns is controversial because of its high cost. In addition, it requires professional training and predisposes to overtreatment and its complications. On the other hand, the physical examination may not identify some instabilities, resulting in failures in detecting isolated acetabular dysplasia. These failures often occur in children with no identifiable risk factors.1313 O’Beirne JG, Chlapoutakis K, Alshryda S, et al. International Interdisciplinary Consensus Meeting on the Evaluation of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip. Ultraschall Med 2019;40(04): 454–464 However, remember that the complications of a potential overtreatment are relatively small in a properly applied orthosis that respects the safety zones.1414 Biedermann R, Eastwood DM. Universal or selective ultrasound screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip? A discussion of the key issues. J Child Orthop 2018;12(04):296–301

In children with risk factors but no relevant findings at the physical examination, delaying the ultrasound screening up to 4 or 6 weeks can help distinguish cases of immaturity from those requiring treatment. Preterm infants require a timeframe adjustment to 44 weeks of gestational age.1515 Lee J, Spinazzola RM, Kohn N, Perrin M, Milanaik RL. Sonographic screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip in preterm breech infants: do current guidelines address the specific needs of premature infants? J Perinatol 2016;36(07):552–556

We believe that children with abnormalities at the physical examination and those born in breech presentation with no clinical signs but with affected first-degree relatives must undergo an ultrasound scan. In cases of breech presentation and normal ultrasound findings, we recommend a pelvic radiograph between the 4th and 6th months of life due to the risk of missing the diagnosis and the presence of late dysplasia.1616 Imrie M, Scott V, Stearns P, Bastrom T, Mubarak SJ. Is ultrasound screening for DDH in babies born breech sufficient? JChild Orthop 2010;4(01):3–8, 1717 Brusalis CM, Price CT, Sankar WN. Incidence of acetabular dysplasia in breech infants following initially normal ultrasound: the effect of variable diagnostic criteria. J Child Orthop 2017;11(04): 272–276, 1818 Antoniak K, Lee C, Goldstein RY, Abousamra O. Is radiographic imaging necessary for identifying late developmental dysplasia of the hip in breech infants with normal ultrasounds? Glob Pediatr Health 2021;8:1–5

Physical Examination

A thorough orthopedic physical examination in search of associated changes is paramount, with special attention to foot deformities and congenital torticollis.1919 Joiner ER, Andras LM, Skaggs DL. Screening for hip dysplasia in congenital muscular torticollis: is physical exam enough? J Child Orthop 2014;8(02):115–119

All children from the nursery must undergo a physical examination for hip instability. The evaluation should continue inthe pediatric follow-up for observation ofother signs and symptoms, as the diagnosis of some cases may be a challenge even in experienced hands.2020 Harper P, Joseph BM, Clarke NMP, et al; International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) Even Experts Can Be Fooled: Reliability of Clinical Examination for Diagnosing Hip Dislocations in New-borns. J Pediatr Orthop 2020;40(08):408–412

For the Ortolani maneuver,2121 Ortolani M. Un segno poco noto e sua importanza per la diagnosi precoce di prelussazione congenita dell’anca. Paediatria 1937; 45:129–136 the child is in the supine position, with hips flexed at 90 degrees, flexed knees, and adducted thighs. The examiner holds the thighs with the palms of the hands to “embrace” the knees, with the thumb on the medial surface and the second and third fingers over the greater trochanter. The hips are assessed separately by performing maximum abduction. The sign is positive when there is a sensation of impingement of the femoral head and compression on the greater trochanter, producing a noticeable “clunk” or a bump (“scatto”). Thigh adduction results in hip displacement. Gentle traction on the axial axis of the limb can help reduce some hips, especially in older children.

The Barlow maneuver33 Barlow TG. Early diagnosis and treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip. Proc R Soc Med 1963;56(09):804–806 also examines the hips separately. The newborn remainsin asupine position with the hipsflexed at 90° and fully flexed knees. The thumb of the examiner is on the inner thigh and the thirdfingerisonthe greater trochanter of the patient. Atfirst, withamediumabduction, the examiner pressures the greater trochanter. The reallocation of the hip indicates a dislocation. This is thefirst phase of the maneuver. The second phase applies pressure in the posterior direction with the hip in neutral abduction or slight adduction. A femoral head dislocation followed by spontaneous reduction when relieving the pressure characterizes an unstable hip (positive Barlow maneuver).

The “click” can result from extra-articular causes, including snapping the greater trochanter, the iliopsoas, the knee patella, or the peroneal ankle tendons. However, it warrants a continuous investigation and referral to an orthopedist because its reason is unclear.2222 Humphry S, Thompson D, Price N, Williams PR. The 'clicky hip’: to refer or not to refer? Bone Joint J 2018;100-B(09):1249-1252

The limited abduction with flexed hips, that is, a Hart sign,2323 Hart VL. Congenital dislocation of the hip in the newborn and in early postnatal life. J Am Med Assoc 1950;143(15):1299-1303 results from the retraction of the adductors. It may occur when the hip is subluxated or dislocated and it usually appears later. The Hart sign is the main clinical sign in children >3 months or those no longer with instability. Children with abductions <60 degrees2424 Harris LE, Lipscomb PR, Hodgson JR. Early diagnosis of congenital dysplasia and congenital dislocation of the hip. Value of the abduction test. J Am Med Assoc 1960;173:229-233 or asymmetrical abductions must undergo imaging tests.

Uponinspection, thepresenceofasymmetryof thegluteal folds and thigh, despite being observed in some healthy children, is a clinical sign that may indicate inequality or retractions of the muscles of the lower limbs and warrants continuing the investigation.2525 Ömeroğlu H, Tatlici E, Köse N. Significance of Asymmetry of Groin and Thigh Skin Creases in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Revisited: Results of a Comparative Study. J Pediatr Orthop 2020; 40(08):e761-e765

The Galeazzi sign is often late and observed in unilateral cases. The children present claudication when they start to walk. The Trendelenburg sign results from gluteus medius insufficiency in monopodal support and lumbar hyperlordosis, especially in bilateral cases.

Ultrasound

Ultrasonography is an optimal test for DDH diagnosis and follow-up in children up to 4 or 6 months old. The most frequently used method was proposed by Graf.2626 Graf R. Fundamentals of sonographic diagnosis of infant hip dysplasia. J Pediatr Orthop 1984;4(06):735-740, 2727 Graf R, Lercher K, Scott S, Spieß T Fundamentos da ultrassonografia do quadril infantil: segundo a técnica de Graf. Tradução de Giovanna Braga Motta e Susana dos Reis Braga São Paulo: Pasavento; 2021 It analyzes the hip in the coronal plane, evaluating the bony and cartilaginous roofs, the acetabular appearance, and, in some cases, its stability.

Its accuracy relies on visualizing the following anatomical structures: osteochondral edge, femoral head, synovial fold, joint capsule, acetabular labrum, cartilage, and bony roof and edge, that is, the bone roof turning point (anatomical identification). In addition, the acetabulum must be at the center of a sectional plane, revealing the lower edgeof the ilium, itslinear echo, and the acetabular labrum (usability check) (►Fig. 1A)

Fig. 1A
Anatomical identification: 1 osteochondral rim, 2 femoral head, 3 synovial crease, 4 capsule, 5 acetabular labrum, 6 cartilage, 7 bony roof, 8 bony roof tipping point. Fig. 1B Usability check: 1 lower edge of the ilium, 2 straight echo of the ilium bone, and 3 acetabular labrum. Alpha and beta angles measurement.

The bony roof angle, alpha, is between the baseline (ilium) and a line tangent to the bony roof starting at the lower edge of the ilium. The cartilaginous roof angle, beta, is between the baseline and the line from the bony roof tipping point to the center of the acetabular labrum. The three lines rarely intersect at a point (►Fig. 1B). Ultrasound evaluation must start with an image quality assessment and proceed to the report. Accurate measurement of alpha and beta angles is critical for correct classification and diagnosis2828 Sari AS, Karakus O. Is experience alone sufficient to diagnose developmental dysplasia of the hip without the bony roof (alpha angle) and the cartilage roof (beta angle) measurements?: A diagnostic accuracy study Medicine (Baltimore) 2020;99(14): e19677 (►Fig. 2).

Fig. 2
Hips are centralized in Graf types I and II hips; type D (nots hown) is the first stage of decentering, and types III and IV hips are off center.

The percentage of head coverage can be a piece of additional information, but remember that the potential ovoid shape in newborns may hinder interpretation. For Terjesen,2929 Terjesen T. Ultrasound as the primary imaging method in the diagnosis of hip dysplasia in children aged < 2 years. J Pediatr Orthop B 1996;5(02):123-128 a coverage starting at 50% in children >1 month is normal. Morin,3030 Morin C, Harcke HT, MacEwen GD. The infant hip: real-time US assessment of acetabular development. Radiology 1985;157(03): 673-677 on the other hand, considers a coverage ≥58% as consistent with normality.

The medial part of the acetabulum is within an acoustic shadow after the ossification of the secondary nucleus of the femoral head, preventing any accurate measurement. From that moment on, pelvic radiography should base the diagnosis.

An anterior approached ultrasound3131 van Douveren FQ, Pruijs HE, Sakkers RJ, Nievelstein RA, Beek FJ. Ultrasound in the management of the position of the femoral head during treatment in a spica cast after reduction of hip dislocation in developmental dysplasia of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2003;85(01):117–120 may also help at the beginning of the treatment for reduction confirmation and follow-up during and after the use of a spica cast.

Radiography

The interpretation of a neonatal hip radiograph can be a challenge. However, from the 6th month of life onwards, it gets easier, and it is essential for DDH follow-up.

Although some question the radiation from this examination, it does not seem to be associated with a neoplastic risk.3232 Bone CM, Hsieh GH. The risk of carcinogenesis from radiographs to pediatric orthopaedic patients. J Pediatr Orthop 2000;20(02): 251–254 A single anteroposterior incidence can be requested to reduce the radioactive dose in follow-up visits.3333 Hudak KE, Faulkner ND, Guite K, et al. Variations in AP and frogleg pelvic radiographs in a pediatric population. J Pediatr Orthop 2013;33(02):212–215 Gonadal protectors are difficult to place in girls. They can be used even though they can hinder the visualization of anatomical parameters.3434 Kumar A, Chau WW, Hung AL, Wong JK, Ng BKW, Cheng JCY. Gonadal shield: is it the Albatross hanging around the neck of developmental dysplasia of the hip research? J Child Orthop 2018; 12(06):606–613

Properly position the radiograph with the limbs in extension. Considering femoral anteversion, the visualization of the femoral neck at its greatest length requires 15 to 20° of medial rotation of the femurs to avoid the false appearance of joint subluxation or coxa valga. In young children, the hand of the examiner holds the knees to compensate for the flexion contracture of the hips.3535 Tönnis D. Congenital dysplasia and dislocation of the hip in children and adults. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1987

For interpretation, draw the Hilgenreiner line, the Ombrédanne-Perkins line, the Menard and Shenton line, the acetabular index (AI), and the center-edge (CE) angle of Wiberg.

Check the radiograph for errors in pelvis rotation and tilt that could prevent the actual AI measurement. The pelvic rotation quotient3535 Tönnis D. Congenital dysplasia and dislocation of the hip in children and adults. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1987 is the relation between the transverse diameters of the right and left obturator foramina. Its reference value ranges from 1.8 to 0.56. For the Ball and Komenda pelvic tilt index, divide the vertical diameter of the obturator foramen by the distance between the pubis and the Hilgenreiner line. Its reference value ranges from 0.75 to 1.2. The normal AI depends on the age of the child and on the form of measurement, which can use the acetabular margin3535 Tönnis D. Congenital dysplasia and dislocation of the hip in children and adults. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1987 or the sourcil3636 Novais EN, Pan Z, Autruong PT, Meyers ML, Chang FM. Normal percentile reference curves and correlation of acetabular index and acetabular depth ratio in children. J Pediatr Orthop 2018;38(03):163-169 as a lateral point. Therefore, we believe that the standardization of measurements is crucial for clinical monitoring.

The Köhler teardrop is often present from the 4th to 6th months of life. Its absence from that age onwards may indicate abnormal development of the acetabular cavity. In the case of femoral head lateralization, this sign becomes enlarged or V-shaped. After treatment, it may regain its normal shape, narrow and rounded at the end, due to acetabular remodeling.3535 Tönnis D. Congenital dysplasia and dislocation of the hip in children and adults. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1987

Treatment

According to the Graf classification, type I hips are healthy, and type IIA (+) are immature. There are controversies regarding the need for treatment of IIA (−) hips (alpha angle <55° in the 6th week of life). Most of these hips can evolve to spontaneous resolution.3737 Roovers EA, Boere-Boonekamp MM, Mostert AK, Castelein RM, Zielhuis GA, Kerkhoff TH. The natural history of developmental dysplasia of the hip: sonographic findings in infants of 1-3 months of age. J Pediatr Orthop B 2005;14(05):325–330 However, girls require special attention due to the persistence of potential dysplasia.2525 Ömeroğlu H, Tatlici E, Köse N. Significance of Asymmetry of Groin and Thigh Skin Creases in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Revisited: Results of a Comparative Study. J Pediatr Orthop 2020; 40(08):e761-e765 Hips classified as IIB, IIC, D, III, and IV require treatment regardless of age.

Developmental dysplasia of the hip treatment requires maintaining a concentric reduction between the femoral head and the acetabulum, positioning the hip in 90 to 110° of flexion and 30 to 65° of abduction while respecting the safety zone.3838 Ramsey PL, Lasser S, MacEwen GD. Congenital dislocation of the hip. Use of the Pavlik harness in the child during the first six months of life. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1976;58(07):1000–1004

It is important to note that using two or more diapers creates a false sense of securityfor parents. However, diapers are inefficient in keeping the hips in the correct position.3939 De Pellegrin M, Damia CM, Marcucci L, Moharamzadeh D. Double Diapering Ineffectiveness in Avoiding Adduction and Extension in Newborns Hips. Children (Basel) 2021;8(03):179 They do not control hip extension and may act as a fulcrum between the lower limbs, functioning as levers for lateralization of the femoral heads. Therefore, this technique is not recommended.

Hip hyperflexion can result in inferior dislocation. Especially in most severe cases, when combined with knee hyperflexion, it can lead to femoral nerve praxis.4040 Sierra-Silvestre E, Bosello F, Fernández-Carnero J, Hoozemans MJM, Coppieters MW. Femoral nerve excursion with knee and neck movements in supine, sitting and side-lying slump: An in vivo study using ultrasound imaging. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2018;37:58–63 Femoral neuropraxia leads to a higher rate of treatment failure and complications, particularly if recovery takes longer than 3 days.4141 Murnaghan ML, Browne RH, Sucato DJ, Birch J. Femoral nerve palsy in Pavlik harness treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2011 ;93(05):493–499 Excessive abduction causes osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis [AVN]) of the femoral head.

Orthoses

The most used orthosis for DDH treatment is the Pavlik harness, often kept up to the 6th month of life. The Pavlik harness can reduce neonatal cases with persistent femoral head dislocation. However, this treatment should not occur for >2 or 3 weeks because of the risk of femoral head vascular compromise and joint deformities resulting from the pressure of the head against the acetabulum.

The anterior straps of this orthosis maintain hip flexion, while the posterior straps limit adduction. Please note that abduction results from a gravitational action and theway the child is carried and that the straps should not force it.

The main error occurs when the anterior straps, which should align with the anterior axillary line, are positioned medially, favoring hip adduction. Another common mistake is to wrap the leg with the strap, which should be just below the popliteal fossa. A strap too close to the ankle causes knee hyperflexion, and an anterior and posterior bowstring mechanism results in inadequate control of the hip position.4242 Mubarak S, Garfin S, Vance R, McKinnon B, Sutherland D. Pitfalls in the use of the Pavlik harness for treatment of congenital dysplasia, subluxation, and dislocation of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1981; 63(08):1239–1248 (►Fig. 3A-B).

Fig. 3
A) Correctly positioned Pavlik. B) Pavlik with the anterior harness too medial and the leg strap positioned distally leading to improper positioning of the hips and knees. Adapted from Mubarak S, Garfin S, Vance R, McKinnon B, Sutherland D. Pitfalls in the use of the Pavlik harness for treatment of congenital dysplasia, subluxation, and dislocation of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1981;63(8):1239–1248.

In cases with greater instability, the posterior strap can pass through the anterior one before returning to its original position as an auxiliary method.4343 Maclean JG, Hawkins A, Campbell D, Taylor MA. A simple modification of the Pavlik harness for unstable hips. J Pediatr Orthop 2005;25(02):183–185

The Tubingen orthosis gains importance from the 3rd month of life onwards. Abduction control is deemed4444 Lyu X, Chen T, Yang Z, et al. Tübingen hip flexion splint more successful than Pavlik harness for decentred hips after the age of three months. Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(05):991–998 superior due to the pull-up bar. In addition to preventing excessive abduction, the child can roll over at night and sleep in a lateral position. Its use is controversial in Graf type IV cases.4444 Lyu X, Chen T, Yang Z, et al. Tübingen hip flexion splint more successful than Pavlik harness for decentred hips after the age of three months. Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(05):991–998, 4545 Ran L, Chen H, Pan Y, Lin Q, Canavese F, Chen S. Comparison betweenthe Pavlik harnessand the Tübingen hipflexionsplint for the early treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip. J Pediatr Orthop B 2020;29(05):424–430

The orthoses regimen ranges from 23 to 24hours per day. It must continue until complete acetabular normalization (Graf type I), which usually occurs in 6 to 12 weeks. The continuation of the treatment for an additional period, as well as weaning, remains a controversial issue, with several protocols. Recently, a comparative study of 1-year-old patients submitted or not toweaning from the Pavlik harness revealed no significant differences in the AI.4646 Bram JT, Gohel S, Castañeda PG, Sankar WN. Is There a Benefit to Weaning Pavlik Harness Treatment in Infantile DDH? J Pediatr Orthop 2021;41(03):143–148

Reduction and cast

From the 3rd month of life, in case of orthosis failure or delayed diagnosis of dislocation, we indicate a closed reduction and immobilization in a spica cast in flexion and abduction.

A previous skin traction, rarely performed today, and an adductor longus tenotomy can collaborate in the reduction and increase the safety zone. Older children with high dislocations are more prone to complications such as AVN, dislocation, and residual dysplasia. The absence of ossification of the femoral head nucleus should not delay treatment even though some authors list it as a risk factor for AVN.

A pneumoarthrography can aid the intraoperative evaluation of the reduction, but it is not an essential procedure in all cases. The difficult radiographic interpretation in the postoperative period is attributed to the presence of plaster and to the two-dimensional nature of the assessment. Radiographs in an inlet position can help.4747 Massa BSF, Guarniero R, Godoy RM Jr, Rodrigues JC, Montenegro NB, Cordeiro FG. Use of inlet radiographs in the assessment of reduction after thesurgical treatment ofdevelopmental dysplasia of the hip. Bone Joint J 2017;99-B(05):697–701 Ultrasound follow-up, although feasible, requiresaspace at the cast for thispurpose and an adequate transducer. Computed tomography (CT) is easily accessible and can be performed selectively (with fewer sections) to reduce the amount of radiation. A rapid protocol of nonsedation and noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is effective for reduction follow-up and detection of joint interpositions.4848 Ranawat V, Rosendahl K, Jones D. MRI after operative reduction with femoral osteotomy in developmental dysplasia of the hip. Pediatr Radiol 2009;39(02):161–163, 4949 Rosenbaum DG, Servaes S, Bogner EA, Jaramillo D, Mintz DN. MR imaging in postreduction assessment of developmental dysplasia of the hip: goals and obstacles. Radiographics 2016;36(03): 840–854

The cast is kept for 3 to 4 months and then replaced with an orthosis. The age for this treatment is controversial but it usually considers 18 months as a limit.

We indicate an open reduction via medial or anterolateral approach in children from 9 months old onwards presenting joint interposition or when closed concentric reduction is impossible. A medial approach is an option for young children,usually <12 months old5050 Herring JA. Developmental Dysplasia of the hip. In: Tachdjian’s pediatric orthopaedics: from the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. 5th ed Philapdelphia: Elsevier; 2014:483–579 (maximum age of 18 months old), allowing to address the structures preventing reduction. Its advantage is the cosmetic surgical scar. However, capsuloplasty cannot occur through this approach, and there is a risk of arterial injury. The anterolateral approach has the advantage of not being limited by age. In addition, it can be associated with capsuloplasty, which favors stabilization,5151 Kotlarsky P, Haber R, Bialik V, Eidelman M. Developmental dysplasia of the hip: What has changed in the last 20 years? World J Orthop 2015;6(11):886–901 avoids greater abduction by the cast, and allows an acetabuloplasty when necessary.

Pelvic Osteotomies

Acetabular remodeling is directly related to stability and age at institution of treatment. It is slower in children >12 months. From 18 months old onwards, we recommend a pelvic osteotomy with a hip reduction procedure.5252 Lindstrom JR, Ponseti IV, Wenger DR. Acetabular development after reduction in congenital dislocation of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1979;61(01):112–118, 5353 Kothari A, Grammatopoulos G, Hopewell S, Theologis T. How does bony surgery affect results of anterior open reduction in walking-age children with developmental hip dysplasia? Clin Orthop Relat Res 2016;474(05):1199–1208

In children with post-treatment residual dysplasia, the decision on the need for pelvic osteotomy is more complex, as the normalization of the acetabular index over time is more likely in hips that are reduced and stable before the age of 2. In a dislocated hip with persistent dysplasia, an MRI can help define the need for intervention according to the appearance and amount of cartilage.5454 Wakabayashi K, Wada I, Horiuchi O, Mizutani J, Tsuchiya D, Otsuka T. MRI findings in residual hip dysplasia. J Pediatr Orthop 2011;31(04):381–387, 5555 Walbron P, Müller F, Mainard-Simard L, Luc A, Journeau P. Bone maturation of MRI residual developmental dysplasia of the hip with discrepancy between osseous and cartilaginous acetabular index. J Pediatr Orthop B 2019;28(05):419–423

The surgery proposed by Salter5656 Salter RB. Innominate osteotomy in the treatment of congenital hip dislocation and subluxation of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Br 1961;43(03):518–539 consists of a transverse osteotomy of the ilium in the innominate line to redirect the acetabulum with the fulcrum in the pubic symphysis. It is usually indicated from 18 months to9 years old. It is possible to obtain coverage of up to 25 degrees anteriorly and 15 degrees laterally.5757 Rab GT. Biomechanical aspects of Salter osteotomy. Clin Orthop Relat Res 1978;(132):82–87 Apparently, there is no acetabular retroversion in the follow-up period.5858 Airey G, Shelton J, Dorman S, Bruce C, Wright DM. The Salter innominate osteotomy does not lead to acetabular retroversion. J Pediatr Orthop B 2021;30(06):515–518

The osteotomy described by Pemberton5959 Pemberton PA. Pericapsular osteotomy of the ilium for treatment of congenital subluxation and dislocation of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1965;47:65–86 is incomplete and the triradiate cartilage is its fulcrum. In addition, it can provide anterolateral coverage. This is a good technique when the acetabulum is wide and disproportionate in size to the femoral head because it reduces the diameter and increases the depth of the acetabular cavity.

The osteotomy attributed to Dega was initially described as semicircular, 1 cm proximal to the bone roof, and sparing the medial wall of the ilium to avoid unwanted medialization. A subsequent description reviewed the technique, which became transiliac and had a fulcrum in the intact bone part close to the sciatic notch.6060 Czubak J, Kowalik K, Kawalec A, Kwiatkowska M. Dega pelvic osteotomy: indications, results and complications. J Child Orthop 2018;12(04):342–348 The redirection of the acetabulum allows for anterior, lateral, and posterior coverage depending on the positioning of the bone graft. For this reason, it is frequently used in dysplasia with a neuromuscular etiology.

Older children and adolescents with open triradiate cartilage may require further acetabular redirection through triple osteotomies including the ilium, the pubis, and the ischium.

Salvage osteotomies, including the shelf and the Chiari technique, have a role when concentric reduction is not feasible.

The need for femoral shortening, rotation, or both to avoid a varus deformation is an intraoperative decision more frequent in children >3 years old.

Final Considerations

The prognosis of DDH relates directly to the age of the child at diagnosis. As such, all children must undergo a hip examination for DDH at the nursery and subsequent visits. We suggest establishing a surveillance protocol according to the local reality, aimed at infants with clinical signs, those born in breech presentation, or with affected first-degree relatives.

Guidance on correct postnatal positioning, avoiding “cigar-shaped” bandages, and focusing on physiological positions can play a significant role in maturing hips and preventing late dysplasia.

Hip ultrasound remains the ideal diagnostic test for children up to 4 or 6 months old. Remember, however, that the orthopedist must have experience and training in image evaluation and establish a clinical correlation with the examination report. After the 6th month of life, due to the probable secondary ossification of the femoral head nucleus, radiography is the optimal test.

Monitor treated children throughout their growth due to the risk of late dysplasia so, if required, they can receive treatment at the appropriate time.

  • Financial Support
    The present study received no financial support from either public, commercial, or not-for-profit sources.

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Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    05 Feb 2024
  • Date of issue
    2023

History

  • Received
    04 July 2022
  • Accepted
    15 Sept 2022
  • Published
    31 July 2023
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