Developmental Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed and Treated at Tampa General Hospital

Hip dysplasia is a condition marked by one or both hip sockets that don’t fully cover the ball portion of the upper thigh, causing the hip joint to be completely or partially dislocated. Most people with this condition are born with it; however, because the severity can vary widely from person to person, it is not always detected at birth. If diagnosed just after birth or during infancy, treatment with a temporary brace will usually correct the problem. However, if hip dysplasia is diagnosed after age 2, typically surgery will be required. This is because the hip gradually hardens from soft cartilage at birth to solid bone. If the ball is not properly positioned during this process, the socket will not form correctly and will be too shallow.

RISK FACTORS FOR HIP DYSPLASIA

Developmental hip dysplasia usually occurs during the final months of pregnancy because the womb becomes more crowded, which can push the hip joint out of the correct position. Although it is possible for any child to be born with this condition, there is an increased risk for girls and children with a family history of dysplasia. Other risk factors include:

• A first pregnancy
• A large baby
• Birth in the breech position

Timely diagnosis and treatment of hip dysplasia is essential, as delays can result in permanent complications, such as arthritis at an early age. The Muma Children's Hospital at TGH pediatric orthopaedic surgeons utilize the latest advances in diagnostic and treatment technology. By providing individualized care, we are able to detect even mild forms of dysplasia early. We also provide a range of treatments to correct hip dysplasia in children of all ages.