A . Bernau , D . Matthiessen Treatment of Hip Dysplasia

A DDH is seen in 2 to 4% of all live births in Germany. If left untreated, in most cases this will lead to an early dysplasia arthritis of the hip. However, since the introduction of ultrasound the diagnosis and treatment of the immature infant hip is possible in the first days of life. The earlier treatment is initiated, the quicker and more reliable a normalization of the hip parameters is observed by ultrasound. For a fast development of the hip joints, the most important is to ensure the reliable maintenance of the “human position“ (Salter), the foetal hip position. It is no longer the common hip abduction used up until now, but a reliable hip flexion of about 100 degrees together with a firmly adjustable average hip abduction (Tschauner 2001). This results in the centering of the hip head required which is the most important stimulus for the final maturing of the acetabulum. The superior effect of such hip flexion devices has been supported by comparative examinations (Tönnis) showing healing rates of 98%.