How is the infant hip screening done?

When and how is the infant hip screening done?

During hospitalisation, the paediatrician or neonatologist will carry out a primary hip screening while the baby is still in the neonatal unit. This is mainly to observe clinical signs, such as the range of motion and symmetry of the lower limbs, and to detect any developmental abnormalities.

The first test at BMM

The first orthopaedic screening is essential to ensure the musculoskeletal health of babies. This is paediatric orthopaedic specialist with the aim of checking the proper development of the hip joints. The test consists of three main parts:

Manual diagnostic test

The orthopaedic specialist will examine the hip joint using palpation and various movement tests.

• Ortolani test: A check of the stability of the hip joint, which helps to detect possible dislocation or instability.
• Barlow test: Detection of loosening or dislocation of the joint.
• Examination of the symmetry of the femoral vessels: Checking the symmetry of the femurs: asymmetrical femurs may indicate a hip developmental abnormality.
• Examining the difference in leg length: In some malformations, the length of the two legs may be different.
• Examination of movement constriction: Examination for motion narrowing: if the hip does not open properly, this may indicate developmental dysplasia.

Ultrasound scan - Accurate mapping of the hip joint

In addition to the manual inspection ultrasound examination of the hip is of particular importance because:

• gives an accurate picture of the development of the joint capsule and femoral head,
• helps detect abnormalities in the ossification process,
• can detect abnormalities that the palpation test cannot.

What symptoms to look out for during an infant hip screening?

A specialist may diagnose hip joint deformity or abnormality based on the following symptoms:

• One leg seems shorter - A difference in the position of the femur may indicate a hip dislocation.
• The baby has difficulty moving one leg - This may indicate a restriction of movement or instability.
• Asymmetric thigh highs - If the folds are not uniform, this may indicate a hip developmental disorder.
• Clicking or clicking sound when moving the hip - It may be a sign of looseness or dislocation of the hip joint.

What are the most common disorders in infancy?

Hip joint dysplasia

A malformation of the hip joint in which the head of the femur does not fit properly into the joint socket. Early detection and treatment is important because it can cause movement problems and limping later.

Dongalab

It is a congenital foot deformity in which the baby's feet turn inwards and downwards. It is treated with special casts, splints or rarely surgery.

Tibial curvature

Mild tibial curvature is common in infancy and usually corrects spontaneously with the onset of walking. If it does not improve, an orthopaedic check-up is necessary.

What to do if the infant hip screening shows an abnormality?

If an underdeveloped or abnormal hip joint is detected, your orthopaedic specialist may recommend the following treatment options:

Terpeszpelenka

It is used for mild hip dysplasia. It helps to keep the femoral head in the correct position.

Pavlik stirrup

It is used for moderate to severe developmental disorders. The stirrup ensures that the baby's legs are kept bent and spread apart.

Surgical intervention

Rarely needed, especially for severe hip sprains. The aim of the operation is to restore the hip joint to its normal position.

Hip ultrasound is completely painless for your baby. Infant hip screening at 4-6 weeks of age is therefore recommended for all babies, as it can detect and treat most deformities. Early detection and treatment of musculoskeletal problems can help a child develop correct movement and prevent orthopaedic problems later on.