Treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip in children: results of closed reduction and immobilization in hip spica cast

To retrospectively review the results of closed reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), and analyze the causative for the unsatisfactory results of radiological.From 1997 to 2005 the results of closed reduction for DDH in 60 children (77 hips) over 4.5 years period were retrospectively reviewed. Radiological final results of the patients were evaluated with Severin classification. The causative factors made from medical records and radiographs were used to make statistical analysis.Seventy-three percent of the patients (56/77) had satisfactory results according to Severin classification. Twenty-one hips classed as Severin III-V. Seventeen of the 21 hips had a reconstructive procedure. Avascular necrosis was observed in 29 hips (38%). The most important parameters affecting the result were age at reduction (P < 0.05) and avascular necrosis (P < 0.05).In order to achieve better clinical and radiological results, the infants suffering from the DDH should be treated in the early stage. The postoperative avascular necrosis usually leads to poor prognosis.PubMed0131017-94