Congenital dislocation of the hip

Alternative names:

congenital dysplasia of the hip joint; congenital hip dysplasia

Treatment:

In early infancy, positioning with a device to keep the legs apart and turned outward (frog-leg position) will stabilize the joint. If there is difficulty in maintaining proper position a plaster cast may be applied and changed periodically to accommodate growth. Operative management may be necessary if early measures to stabilize the joint are unsuccessful, or if the defect is detected in an older child.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is usually good with treatment.

Complications:

• delay in walking may occur for a child in a cast
• skin irritation from reduction devices
• untreated, may lead to arthritis and deterioration of the hip later in life
• limb length discrepancies may persist

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you suspect that your child's hip is not properly positioned.