Congenital Hip Dislocations, also known as Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), refers to a condition in which a baby's hip joint fails to develop correctly, leading to misalignment or dislocation of the hip joint. It is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth or develops shortly after, typically during the first few months of life.
In a normal hip joint, the ball-shaped end of the thighbone (femur) sits securely within the cup-shaped socket (acetabulum) of the pelvis. In the case of congenital hip dislocations, the hip joint may be shallow, causing the femoral head to partially or completely slip out of the acetabulum. This abnormal positioning can disrupt the growth and development of the hip joint, leading to further complications if left untreated.
Several factors contribute to the development of congenital hip dislocations, including genetic predisposition, maternal hormone levels during pregnancy, and environmental factors. It is more common in females and often affects both hips.
If left untreated, congenital hip dislocations can result in abnormal walking patterns, limb length discrepancies, pain, and hip joint degeneration in adulthood. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a successful outcome. Treatment options may include the use of a special harness or brace to guide the hip joint into correct alignment, or in some cases, surgical intervention may be required to relocate the hip joint or correct any bone abnormalities.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional during infancy help ensure early detection and appropriate management of congenital hip dislocations.
