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Routine screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip by chiropractors: a case report of late diagnosis in an
Christian J Fludder1, Braden G Keil1
1Private practice, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Delayed diagnosis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) in infants can be reduced. Early screening and collaboration among healthcare providers ensure timely intervention, preventing surgical needs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Musculoskeletal Health
Background:
- Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a common infant condition.
- Delayed diagnosis can occur due to long intervals between routine assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the diagnosis and management of late-onset DDH in an infant.
- To highlight the importance of timely intervention for DDH.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an 18-week-old infant with late-onset DDH.
- Successful management using simultaneous Pavlik harnessing with a Denis Browne Bar.
Main Results:
- The infant with late-onset DDH was successfully treated.
- The chosen method of Pavlik harnessing with Denis Browne Bar proved effective.
Conclusions:
- Routine ongoing hip joint screening is crucial for early DDH detection.
- Inter-professional collaboration and practitioner training are vital.
- Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent surgical procedures and reduce medical burden.
Background:
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a common musculoskeletal condition of infancy, but diagnosis can be delayed. In parts of Australia, after the four-month routine assessment, there is a 16-week interval before the next well-child assessment. This may result in a delay in diagnosing late developing DDH.
Case Presentation:
This case report describes the diagnosis and management of an 18-week old infant with late-onset DDH who was successfully managed with simultaneous Pavlik harnessing with Denis Browne Bar.
Summary:
This case underscores the importance of routine ongoing hip joint screening, inter-professional collaboration of all health care practitioners, and the importance of appropriate training of all practitioners seeing infants, to reduce instances of undetected DDH, reduce medical burden, and prevent otherwise unnecessary surgical intervention.
