What Happens if Hip Dislocation in Children Is Not Diagnosed Early?
Hip dislocation is a common orthopedic issue among children, typically emerging during birth or early infancy. Medically, it is also referred to as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), characterized by a disruption in the normal anatomical structure of the hip joint. The hip joint consists of the femoral head and the acetabulum, which should fit together precisely. This disorder manifests as poor seating of the femoral head in the acetabulum, either partially dislocated or fully dislocated. Failure to detect this condition early can lead to various complications and significantly reduce quality of life in affected children.
Early diagnosis of hip dislocation directly influences treatment success. Physical examinations conducted in the first weeks after birth, especially using Ortolani and Barlow tests, enable early detection of hip dislocation. Ultrasonography is the preferred, reliable method for assessing hip structure in infants aged 4 to 6 weeks. When diagnosed early, the hip can be properly positioned and managed with regular monitoring and treatment. This approach supports normal development of bone and soft tissues and enables full recovery of functional movement.
If left undiagnosed, hip dislocation can progress, causing permanent deformities in the hip. When the femoral head is not properly aligned in the acetabulum, inadequate development (dysplasia) of the acetabulum occurs, impairing joint function. The stability of the hip joint deteriorates, resulting in clinical symptoms such as walking difficulties, limping, and pain. Additionally, children with untreated hip dislocation face an increased risk of early osteoarthritis in the joint, which may necessitate prosthetic surgery in adulthood.
Among treatment methods for early diagnosis of hip dislocation, the Pavlik harness is the most commonly used. This device gently pushes the femoral head into the acetabulum, facilitating proper joint placement. The treatment process includes routine checks and ultrasound follow-ups. If non-surgical management fails in the early stages, surgical intervention may be required. Surgical techniques aim to restore the hip joint closer to its normal anatomical position and, in some cases, reconstructive procedures such as the Ilizarov method may be necessary.
Early detection of hip dislocation during childhood is crucial for physical development as well as psychosocial well-being. Children diagnosed with hip dislocation who undergo regular rehabilitation programs have a greater chance to return to normal life. This process reduces stress for families and significantly improves a child's quality of life. Furthermore, from a public health perspective, early diagnosis and treatment prevent the need for complex orthopedic surgeries later in life and reduce medical costs.
In summary, failing to diagnose hip dislocation early in children leads to permanent orthopedic issues, hip deformities, pain, and movement limitations. Therefore, meticulous hip evaluations during newborn examinations and advanced imaging such as ultrasonography for at-risk infants are essential. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, children can achieve a healthy and functional musculoskeletal system.