Dr. Sankar addresses common questions about infant hip dysplasia, when to request an ultrasound, bracing options and when surgery is needed.

Treating infants with complex developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) requires the best diagnostic tools, a full range of brace options and when needed, complex surgery.

When A.L. was 11 years old, he complained of pain in his left hip. The pain subsided, but a week and a half later, A.L. came home crying and barely able to walk. The pain in his hip had become “excruciating.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend routine ultrasounds for every infant, but it does support referral for ultrasound and/or pediatric orthopedic consultation for babies with an abnormal physical exam or major risk factors for DDH.