[The use of ultrasonography in developmental dysplasia of the hip]

Approach to hip sonography in Europe differs considerably from that in the USA, with different examination techniques and, therefore, discrepant results. The method used in Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and other countries is strictly standardized, reproducable, and out of the experience and skill of the examiner. Open reductions have been reduced to 0.13/1000 newborn babies in Austria, and to 0.26/1000 in Germany. This is the lowest rate which ever has been reported in the world. Costs for screening and treatment are three times lower than in the presonography era. These improvements result from training given by authorized teachers, implementation of ultrasonography screening program within the first six weeks of life, and planning treatment according to the sonography types.