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Neonatal DDH: The controversial role of ultrasound for screening

CPD Hours

1.5

Category

Radiology, imaging and associated treatments
Neonates and paediatrics
Midwifery and child health
Diagnostics
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Overview

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a complicated condition, characterised by a spectrum of abnormalities that affect the neonatal or infant hip. It is diagnosed through clinical examination and/or neonatal hip ultrasound.

Despite high global awareness, the exact definition of DDH remains controversial. This is largely due to variable levels of detection following clinical versus radiologic assessment, which has raised questions regarding the true prevalence of DDH and the value of universal ultrasound screening for infants.

This module outlines the controversial role of neonatal hip ultrasound in screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

This module is aimed at midwives and neonatal nurses. Whistle it is acknowledged that midwives and registered nurses do not usually perform ultrasound of the hip, they are involved in the care of babies having this procedure and as such it is of interest to this group of practitioners.

Learning Objective

At the end of this module participants will be able to:

  • Describe the difference between clinically- and radiologically-defined DDH
  • Understand the variable prevalence of the condition, as determined by the method of diagnosis
  • Highlight the methods of ultrasound indicated in DDH
  • Discuss the pros and cons of universal ultrasound screening for infants

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