Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: Observation Vs. Bracing

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA · May 19, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the best way to treat mild developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in babies under three months old. DDH is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly in the socket, and it’s common in young children. Traditionally, doctors have used a brace to help correct this, but the brace can make it harder for parents to bond with their baby and manage daily activities. This study will compare two approaches: careful observation to see if the hips improve on their own, versus using a brace. The goal is to find out if simply watching the baby’s development might be just as effective as bracing, potentially avoiding unnecessary treatment.

To participate in this trial, babies must be under three months old and have specific measurements on their hip ultrasound that show mild dysplasia. Unfortunately, babies older than three months, those with hip instability, or those with certain medical conditions cannot join the study. If eligible, families can expect regular check-ups and monitoring of their baby's hip development over time. This important research is being conducted across seven countries, which means the results could help inform treatment options for families around the world.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients presenting with radiological dysplasia of a clinically stable hip under three months (12 weeks) of age
• • Radiological dysplasia will be defined as a centred hip with an alpha angle between 43 and 60 degrees and a percent coverage of the femoral head (FHC) greater than 35%, as measured on ultrasound exam
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients presenting with radiological dysplasia older than three months (12 weeks) of age
• • Patients presenting with clinical hip instability (Ortolani or Barlow positive)
• • Patients with known or suspected neuromuscular, collagen, chromosomal or lower-extremity congenital abnormalities or syndromic-associated hip abnormalities
• • Patients who received prior treatment (i.e. Pavlik harness) for DDH