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Developmental dysplasia of the hip

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Definition:

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a problem with the shape of the hip joint. The condition is found in babies or young children.

Alternative Names:

Developmental dislocation of the hip joint; Developmental hip dysplasia; DDH; Congenital dysplasia of the hip; Congenital dislocation of the hip; CDH

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The hip is a ball and socket joint. The ball, called the femoral head, comes from the top part of the thigh bone (femur) and the socket (acetabulum) comes from the pelvis. Developmental hip dislocation depend on how badly deformed the hip is. The hip may be all the way out of the joint or the socket may be a little shallow.

The cause is unknown, but genetic factors may play a role. Problems resulting from very mild developmental dysplasia of the hip may not be seen until the person is in their 30's or 40's.

One or both hips may be involved. Risk factors include being the first child, being female, a breech delivery, and a family history of the disorder. It occurs in about 1 out of 1,000 births.

• Review Date: 5/15/2006
• Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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