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Hip dislocation in patients with spinal muscular atrophy
Scott M Sporer1, Brian G Smith
1Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Harford, Connecticut, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|December 25, 2002
Summary
Hip dislocation is common in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Long-term follow-up shows few symptoms, suggesting observation is often best for SMA patients with hip dislocation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Genetics
Background:
- Hip dislocation is a known complication in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
- The long-term outcomes and optimal management strategies for hip dislocation in SMA patients remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the natural history of hip dislocation in a cohort of spinal muscular atrophy patients.
- To assess long-term functional outcomes and pain associated with hip dislocation in this population.
Main Methods:
- A single-institution retrospective study of 41 spinal muscular atrophy patients.
- Mean follow-up duration of 18 years.
- Assessment of hip pain, functional difficulties (positioning, skin/perineal care), and radiographic review.
Main Results:
- Of 82 hips, 17 (21%) were dislocated and 20 were subluxed in 14 patients.
- Only two patients reported hip pain at follow-up.
- One patient experienced seating difficulties; no patients had perineal care issues.
Conclusions:
- Hip dislocation in spinal muscular atrophy patients often has a benign long-term course with minimal symptoms.
- Observation appears to be a suitable management approach for hip dislocation in SMA, given the low incidence of pain and functional impairment.