Hip sonography: 20 years experience and results.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) diagnosis and treatment vary globally.
• The Graf technique for hip sonography is widely adopted in German-speaking countries but debated elsewhere.
• Standardization of ultrasound techniques is crucial for reliable DDH assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the efficacy of the Graf technique in early DDH detection.
• To emphasize the benefits of standardized hip sonography for comparable and reliable results.
• To assess the impact of ultrasound screening on surgical interventions and healthcare costs.

Main Methods:

• Standardized hip sonography using the Graf technique.
• Precise anatomical identification and measurement protocols.
• Classification of hip joint stability and morphology.

Main Results:

• Hip ultrasound screening significantly reduced open reductions for DDH in Germany (1:4000) and Austria (0.23 per thousand).
• Early detection and less aggressive treatment led to an estimated one-third reduction in overall healthcare costs.
• Ultrasound screening demonstrates a high success rate in preventing operations, though not all cases.

Conclusions:

• Standardized hip sonography, particularly the Graf technique, is a reliable and effective tool for early DDH detection.
• Early screening and treatment via ultrasound can substantially decrease the need for invasive surgeries and reduce healthcare expenditures.
• Hip ultrasound screening is recommended as a key preventive strategy for DDH.