Hip subluxation and dislocation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neuromuscular Diseases
• Pediatric Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Hip subluxation and dislocation are prevalent in neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, and myelomeningocele.
• These hip abnormalities are not typically associated with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency of hip subluxation and dislocation in patients diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
• To establish the association between DMD and hip joint abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of hip radiographs from 54 patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
• Analysis of radiographic findings to identify and quantify instances of hip subluxation and dislocation.

Main Results:

• 15 out of 54 patients (27.8%) exhibited unilateral hip subluxation.
• One patient presented with bilateral hip subluxation.
• Three patients had unilateral hip dislocation.

Conclusions:

• Hip subluxation and dislocation occur frequently in patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
• Serial hip radiographs are recommended for DMD patients, similar to protocols for cerebral palsy.
• Managing pelvic tilt through improved sitting posture and early spinal stabilization may help delay or prevent progressive hip subluxation.