Sonography of the neonatal and infant hip

Using real-time high-resolution sonography, it is possible to directly visualize the cartilaginous femoral head and define its relation with the acetabulum in normal and pathologic states. Thirty-six examinations were performed on 33 infants, newborn to 1 year of age. Two transverse views were obtained through the femoral head and acetabulum. The medial transverse scan was particularly helpful in casted or splinted patients. The lateral transverse view allowed visualization of the triradiate cartilage. All studies performed on a control group of 20 were normal. The diagnosis of hip dislocation was suggested sonographically in three patients and was confirmed radiographically in each case.