PATIENT EDUCATION
Parents should be fully educated on the options for managing hip dysplasia. Once DDH is diagnosed, prompt referral to an orthopedic specialist is critical in order to weigh the treatment options and to develop the appropriate individualized plan for each child. Once treatment is initiated, parental compliance is essential; frequent meetings between parents and the specialist are important.
Parents of infants with known risk factors for and/or suspicion of hip dysplasia should also be educated on hip-healthy swaddling to allow for free motion of the hips and knees.10,13 Advise them that some commercial baby carriers and slings may maintain the hips in an undesirable extended position. In both swaddling and with baby carriers, care should be taken to allow for hip abduction and flexion. Caution should also be taken during diaper changes to avoid lifting the legs and thereby causing unnecessary stress to the hips.
CONCLUSION
Developmental dysplasia of the hip can be a disabling pediatric condition. Early diagnosis improves the likelihood of successful treatment during infancy and can prevent serious complications. If untreated, DDH can lead to joint degeneration and premature arthritis. Recognition and treatment within the first six weeks of life is crucial to the overall outcome.
The role of a primary care provider is to identify hip dysplasia risk factors and recognize associated physical exam findings in order to refer to an orthopedic specialist in a timely manner. Guidelines from the AAP, POSNA, and AAOS help direct this process in order to effectively identify infants at risk and in need of treatment.
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