The Pediatric Hip

The disease formerly known as Congenital Dislocation of the Hip has more recently been described as Developmental Dislocation (or Dysplasia) of the Hip. It is not clear whether the causes of this disease are congenital, developmental or both. True congenital dislocation is often intractable, as it involves severe dislocation and is accompanied by considerable anomalies. In true congenital dislocation, the acetabulum is remarkably shallow and steep, and antetorsion of the femur is severe. In developmental dislocation, environmental factors have more influence on the occurrence of the dislocation than congenital ones. The kind of diaper is one of the most important factors. The prevalence of dislocation is high in some colder areas. In such areas, diapers or clothes are often fitted down to the knee with the hip in the extended position to keep the children from the cold.