Congenital Dislocation of the Hip

Alternate Names : CDH, Congenital Dysplasia of the Hip, Congenital Subluxation of the Hip, Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, Acetabular Dysplasia

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment is directed toward the development of a normal hip joint. The head of the femur and the socket of the pelvis tend to develop more normally when they are correctly positioned next to one another. This can be achieved by using extra diapers, a harness, a brace, or a cast.

If these methods don't work, the orthopedic surgeon may recommend an operation on the hip, ligaments, and tendons, called a corrective wedge osteotomy.

A cast will be placed afterward to seat the hip properly. Follow-up joint x-rays can determine the degree of success. In young children, it may be necessary to operate on the pelvis to redirect the structures.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects include possible discomfort from a brace or cast. If surgery is needed, side effects can include nausea and vomiting from the anesthesia, and infection from the surgery site.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If treatment has begun within the first 3 months of life treatment is usually successful and no further treatment is necessary. The older a child is the more complicated and lengthy treatment may be. Treatment may involve multiple operations and braces. Satisfactory hip function is difficult to restore if a child is older than 5.

Possible complications include:

How is the condition monitored?

Periodic checkups with the healthcare provider are helpful.