Developmental dislocation of the hip
The UK NSC policy on Developmental dislocation of the hip screening in newborns
More Information
The hip is a 'ball and socket' joint. The top of the thigh bone (femur) is shaped like a ball and fits into a matching cup (acetabulum) on the outer side of the pelvis. Various problems can affect the baby's hip as it develops. Sometimes the ball does not lie safely in the socket and is displaced from it: this is what is meant by dislocation. Sometimes, although the ball is in the socket it can slip in and out of place. This is what is meant by the hip being dislocatable. Sometimes although the hip is in the socket it is not deeply in place and we call this hip 'subluxated.' Finally in some children although the hip is in the right place the socket does not grow properly and is too shallow. If the hip socket is shallow this may allow the ball to move from the position it should occupy.
1 to 2 in 1,000 babies born may have a hip that is dislocated at birth. A slightly larger group of children have hips which are not safely in the socket or in whom the socket is shallower than it should be. In general girls are more likely to be affected than boys. The left hip is more often affected than the right.
» Read more about developmental dislocation of the hip on the Contact a Family website
Policy Position
Screening for congenital dislocated hip (CDH) and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is part of the physical examination of newborn and 6-8 week old babies.
A Programme Centre has been set up in England and all aspects of the examination are being reviewed.
Ultrasound screening should not be offered to all babies, unless part of an ethically approved and externally funded research project.
This policy was reviewed in Jul 2006 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2014/15, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Screening in the UK
Compare how screening is offered across the UK.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
See the Child Health Subgroup report - dysplasia of the hip (September 2004) below.
Stakeholders
Royal College of Midwives
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
STEPS
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
