Assessment and Management of Residual Acetabular Dysplasia from Age 1 to 5 Years: Defining Normal Acetabular Index

Taylor R Johnson1, Stephanie Y Pun1, William Z Morris2

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford Healthcare, Redwood City, California.

JBJS Reviews
|June 20, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Persistent high acetabular index values in children may indicate hip dysplasia requiring intervention. Monitoring trends and using MRI can guide decisions on early surgery versus observation for optimal outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Radiology

Background:

  • Acetabular index values are key indicators in assessing hip dysplasia.
  • Persistent abnormalities may predict long-term poor outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the predictive value of persistent abnormal acetabular index values.
  • To explore the role of MRI in surgical decision-making for hip dysplasia.
  • To assess the optimal timing for pelvic osteotomy.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of acetabular index trends over time.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for cartilaginous morphology and femoral head coverage assessment.
  • Review of outcomes based on timing of surgical intervention (pelvic osteotomy) versus observation.

Main Results:

  • Persistent elevated acetabular index values (>25-30° at 4-5 years or >35° at 2 years postreduction) suggest potential poor outcomes.
  • MRI can aid in surgical decision-making by evaluating cartilaginous coverage.
  • Early pelvic osteotomy capitalizes on remodeling potential, but observation may reduce risks and allow spontaneous correction.

Conclusions:

  • Routine monitoring of acetabular index trends is vital for stable, dysplastic hips.
  • Shared decision-making with families is crucial to balance risks of residual dysplasia and secondary procedures.
  • The timing of pelvic osteotomy should consider individual patient factors and potential for spontaneous correction.

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