C.D.H. in the Pre- and Post-Sonographic Era

Abstract

The young generation of orthopedic Surgeons, entering the sonographic era, are more aware of the importance of the early diagnosis of hip development dysplasia (D.D.H.). In time, probably during the next decades, D.D.H. sequelae will no longer be one of the most frequent reasons for surgical hip treatments. Early sonographic investigation indicates that about 41% of newborn hips still have not reached normal maturation at the time of birth (physiological immaturity) and 0.66% of dislocatable or dislocated hips elude pure clinical tests. Prevention and, when necessary, early treatment, which limit the suffering of both patients and parents, achieve first rate results and help contain costs for Society. However, for those cases detected later, either closed or open reposition-retention is still necessary. From the fundamental contributions of the past, we can now compare the results of the pre- and post-sonographic experience.