Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Referral Guidelines
A disorder of abnormal hip development characterized by underdevelopment of the acetabulum. This idiopathic condition is known as acetabular dysplasia, which can potentially result in hip subluxation or dislocation. Dysplasia can cause significant hip function morbidity and is one of the most common causes of total hip arthroplasty in young adults (<40 years of age). This entity is separate from hip conditions secondary to known etiologies, such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida.
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Initial Evaluation:
- All patients should undergo screening via history and exam as infants
- Assess Risk Factors: Breech positioning in utero, Family history (1st degree relative) of hip dysplasia, female, first-born
- Physical exam maneuvers: Barlow, Ortolani, asymmetric skin folds, Klisic, Galeazzi, leg length discrepancy, asymmetric hip abduction
Initial Management:
- If positive instability on exam: obtain ultrasound between 2-6 weeks of age
- If positive breech or family history: obtain ultrasound at 6 weeks of age
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Any abnormalities concerning for DDH on physical exam or imaging
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For questions about Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine or to schedule an in-person appointment or telehealth visit, please call us at 202-476-2112.
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The patient will be asked to provide medical and family history, undergo a routine exam and may also need to undergo an ultrasound or X-ray screening during their visit.
Outpatient Appointment Referral Pads (PDFs)
Northern Virginia - 2021: English | En Español
Maryland - 2021: English | En Español
Montgomery County Imaging - 2020: English
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