Congenital dislocation of the hip

Alternative names:

congenital dysplasia of the hip joint; congenital hip dysplasia

Definition:

A malformation of the hip that is present at birth.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A congenital hip dislocation varies in the degree of malformation. The cause is unknown but genetic factors may play a role. Problems resulting from congenital dislocation of the hip may not become apparent until the person is in their 30's or 40's. One or both hips may be involved. Risk factors include being female, being born as a breech delivery, and a family history of the disorder. It occurs in about 1 out of 1,000 births.