Mild hip dysplasia in newborns. All the signs of hip dysplasia in a newborn baby: what parents should pay attention to

Violation of the development and formation of the hip joints - the main type congenital anomalies musculoskeletal system in children under 1 year of age.

Hip dysplasia in newborns occurs with a frequency of 25 cases per 1000. In regions with a negative environmental situation, the incidence rate increases several times.

What is dysplasia?

DTS is a disease characterized by underdevelopment during embryogenesis of all elements involved in the formation of the joint:

  • ligaments;
  • cartilage;
  • bone surfaces;
  • muscles;
  • neural structures.

IN medical literature You can find a synonym - congenital hip dislocation.
There are three degrees of severity of the disease:

  • 1st degree (pre-luxation) - underdevelopment of osteochondral elements is observed; the muscular-ligamentous apparatus is not changed. Head deflection femur absent.
  • 2nd degree (subluxation) - against the background of characteristic manifestations of preluxation, there is a displacement (dislocation) of the head of the femur upward and outward.
  • 3rd degree (dislocation) - severe form, the femoral head does not contact the acetabulum, contact articular surfaces absent.

The figure shows the types of DTS.

A - normal hip joint of a newborn, B - 1st degree dysplasia, C - 2nd degree dysplasia, D - 3rd degree dysplasia.

Historical background - Hippocrates described the first symptoms of the disease in newborns. He used traction with heavy loads. Only at the beginning of the twentieth century did serious work appear on timely diagnosis and treatment of pathology. The term “dysplasia” was first introduced by Hilgenreiner in 1925.

Reasons for the formation of DTS in newborns

There are several theories to explain why congenital hip dysplasia occurs.

  • Hereditary theory ─ the occurrence of the disease is associated with genetic predisposition.
  • Hormonal theory - the basis for the development of dysplasia is high level at the end of pregnancy; as a result, there is a decrease in the tone of the muscular-ligamentous apparatus, which is the cause of instability in the vehicle.
  • Exogenous theory - exposure to toxic substances, including certain groups medicines, disrupts development processes bone tissue and leads to pathology of the musculoskeletal system.
  • Multifactorial theory - hip dysplasia in infants occurs as a result of the combined influence of the above factors.

To conditions that promote development congenital dislocation hips include:

  • breech presentation of the fetus;
  • lack of vitamins and microelements (calcium, phosphorus, iodine, iron, vitamin E);
  • underdevelopment of the acetabulum;
  • restriction of fetal mobility in the uterine cavity.

Installed directly proportional dependence increased incidence of DTS from the characteristics of swaddling a child. In many countries in Africa and Asia, the incidence is lower because newborns are not swaddled; they prefer to be carried on the back, thereby ensuring freedom of movement for the child. In this regard, in the early 70s of the last century, the Japanese, in accordance with the national program, abandoned the ancient tradition: tight and durable swaddling was prohibited for hip dysplasia in newborns. The result surprised even skeptics: the number of children with TS pathology decreased by approximately 10 times.

Symptoms of dysplasia

When examining a child, pay attention to following signs:

  • position and dimensions lower limbs;
  • position of skin folds in the thigh area (symmetrical or asymmetrical);
  • muscle tone;
  • volume of active and passive movements.

DTS in infants manifests itself with characteristic symptoms.

  • Slipping symptom (synonym: clicking symptom). The child is placed on his back, bending his legs both at the knees and at the hips at an angle of 90 degrees (the examiner’s thumbs are placed on the inner surface of the thighs, the remaining fingers are on the outer surface). When the hips are abducted, pressure is applied to the greater trochanter, resulting in the reduction of the femoral head. The process is accompanied by a characteristic click.
  • Limitation of hip abduction. Childhood hip dysplasia is manifested by limited abduction to 80 degrees or less. The symptom is most typical for unilateral lesions.
  • Relative shortening of the limb. The symptom is rare in newborns and is observed with high dislocations.
  • External rotation of the lower limb is a sign characterized by outward rotation of the hip on the affected side. May also occur in healthy children.
  • The asymmetrical position of the femoral and gluteal folds is revealed during an external examination.

Secondary (auxiliary) signs of DTS in a newborn:

  • atrophy of soft tissues (muscles) on the affected side;
  • pulsation femoral artery reduced on the side of the dysplastic joint.

Asymptomatic cases of congenital hip dislocation are rare.

Instrumental diagnostic methods

Many mothers are interested in the question: how to determine dysplasia in newborns with one hundred percent certainty? In order to clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to perform the following diagnostic procedures.

X-ray examination - Before taking an image, the following conditions must be met: symmetrical positioning of the newborn, minimum procedure time, use of protective pads. When producing radiographs, it is necessary to have assistants or parents involved to help fix the baby in the desired position. TS dysplasia has characteristic X-ray signs:

  • obliquity of the roof of the acetabulum;
  • departure of the femoral head from the central axis;
  • discrepancy between the size of the glenoid cavity and the size of the head;
  • displacement of the thigh outward from the vertical line.

Arthrography allows us to judge the X-ray negative elements - ligaments, capsule. Using this method, even grade 1 hip dysplasia can be diagnosed. On an arthrogram it is possible to determine the position of the head and its shape, fibrosis of the capsule, fusion of the acetabulum. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Pierce with a thin needle skin, subcutaneous fat, capsule, penetrate into the cavity of the vehicle. A contrast agent containing iodine or an inert gas is injected. X-rays are then taken.

Arthroscopy - A conductor with a camera is inserted into the joint cavity, and an image of all elements is displayed on the TV screen - bone surfaces, ligaments, cartilage.

Ultrasound examination of the vehicle. Advantages - the possibility of repeated use to monitor treatment, no radiation exposure compared to radiography. The method is non-invasive, safe for the child. Using ultrasonography, it is possible to detect congenital hip dislocation on early stages. Ultrasound is performed for the following indications:

  • availability clinical manifestations DTS;
  • severe pregnancy and childbirth;
  • decreased muscle tone in the lower extremities.

Computed tomography allows you to evaluate additional radiological indicators - the degree of atrophy of the soft tissues surrounding the joint. The main disadvantage of the method is the high radiation dose, even with a single examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging used to determine indications for surgical treatment.

Differential diagnosis

There are diseases that can present with the same symptoms as congenital hip dislocation. The doctor needs to make some efforts to make the correct diagnosis.
TS dysplasia in newborns must be distinguished from the diseases listed below:

  • pathological hip dislocation;
  • paralytic dislocation;
  • metaphyseal fractures;
  • arthrogryposis;
  • epiphyseal osteodysplasia.

DTS in newborns in numbers

  • If treatment is started before the age of 3 months, the cure rate is 97%.
  • Treatment prescribed in the second half of the year gives excellent results only in 30% of cases.
  • The detection rate of the disease before the age of 6 months is only 40%.
  • Treatment started before the age of 3 months lasts 2 months, and treatment started at the age of 12 months lasts more than 20 years.

Main types of treatment

There are many scientific works, which contains information on how to treat TC dysplasia. Most authors are guided by the following principles:

  • treatment is prescribed when clinical signs of the disease are detected;
  • treatment is prescribed in the presence of radiological signs of the disease, even in the absence of clinical ones;
  • combination of asymmetry of the gluteal folds with severe course pregnancy is an indication for treatment.

Conservative treatment includes:

  • wide swaddling: carried out for 1 - 2 months, while active movements in the joints are maintained, which contributes to the spontaneous reduction of the dislocation and the correct formation of the acetabulum;
  • spacers for DTS make it possible to abduct the legs when they are bent, free access to the body. The most commonly used splint for dysplasia is Pavlik stirrups;
  • use of functional plaster casts with a distraction system;
  • physiotherapeutic techniques reduce the activity of the inflammatory process, improve trophic processes in tissues, prevent the occurrence of contractures, and reduce pain. The following types of physiotherapy are used:
    • for dysplasia, it allows the administration of medications into the hip joint area;
    • amplipulse therapy;
    • ultrasound;
    • magnetic laser therapy;
    • hyperbaric oxygen therapy;
    • massage;
    • acupuncture.

Surgical treatment of DTS is indicated when conservative methods are ineffective. Used the following types operations:

  • open reduction of congenital hip dislocation;
  • endoscopic treatment of dysplasia.

Memo for parents

  • Children who have completed treatment for hip dysplasia need to adhere to a certain regimen.
  • It is recommended to continue performing gymnastic exercises.
  • Early learning to walk is prohibited.
  • Walkers and other devices that force walking are not used.
  • Boots are used that fix the ankle joints.

Rehabilitation measures for dysplasia

Rehabilitation is aimed at:

  • strengthening the muscles that form the hip joint;
  • activation of reparative (restoration) processes;
  • adaptation of the joint to changed conditions of dynamics and statics.

For this purpose, physical therapy, physiotherapeutic treatment, and medications are used.

How to prevent the development of dysplasia in a newborn?

For this purpose it is necessary:

  • regularly visit a neurologist and orthopedist;
  • perform ultrasound examination of joints;
  • engage in physical therapy;
  • Avoid tight swaddling.

From the collection of an orthopedic doctor - a clinical example

Patient Ira K., age - 8 months. A diagnosis was made: “grade 2 dysplasia of the right hip joint.” I took courses periodically outpatient treatment without positive dynamics, which served as the basis for hospitalization in the trauma department of the children's city hospital.
Upon admission to the hospital, the doctor revealed:

  • shortening of the left lower limb by 1 cm;
  • limiting abduction in joints to 70 degrees;
  • asymmetrical position of the gluteal and femoral folds.

X-ray examination - absence of femoral heads, hypoplasia (underdevelopment) of the leading elements of the hip joint on the right.
The following treatment was carried out:

  • surgery under general anesthesia - lengthening of the adductor muscles of the thigh;
  • adhesive traction for 3 weeks, followed by closed reduction of the head of the right femur and application of a plaster cast;
  • in 3 months plaster cast deleted;
  • a Vilensky splint was applied;
  • dosed load on the affected lower limb.

After treatment, a control radiograph was taken: the dislocation of the head of the right femur was reduced.
From the age of 6 months, Ira is allowed to crawl.
The next stage is rehabilitation treatment(with a frequency of 1 time in 3 months), which included:

  • gymnastic exercises aimed at developing the affected joint;
  • physiotherapeutic treatment (amplipulse therapy, electrophoresis, massage of the lower extremities, mud therapy);
  • hyperbaric oxygenation;
  • B vitamins;
  • diet therapy;
  • drugs aimed at restoring cartilage structure.

At the age of 1 year 1 month, the Vilensky splint was removed, and dosed static loads were allowed. On a radiograph taken at this age - complete absence signs of traffic accident on the right.
The range of motion in the affected joint was completely restored. Pain syndrome the child does not.

From the above we can conclude: hip dysplasia is a curable (curable) disease. Full recovery is possible provided that you contact an orthopedist in a timely manner and fully follow all recommendations.

Dysplasia is a disorder of joint development that results in a predisposition to dislocation—the head of the bone coming out of the joint capsule. In newly born babies, this defect most often affects the hip joints. Dysplasia in newborns is quite common: in some regions of Russia, up to 20% of children suffer from it.

Causes of joint malformations

The musculoskeletal system of the fetus begins to form at 4-5 weeks of pregnancy. This process ends after birth, when the baby begins to actively walk. Contrary to popular belief, hip dysplasia in newborns does not appear as a result of improper actions of doctors during childbirth, but occurs gradually during pregnancy. Experts consider heredity to be the most common risk factor: more than a third of children suffering from this disease are born in families where cases of dysplasia in newborns have already been observed. The gender of the child also matters: in girls, congenital defects in joint development are diagnosed 4 times more often than in boys. Dysplasia most often affects the left joint (in 60% of cases); developmental defects of the right joint and both joints simultaneously account for 20% of cases.

The causes of hip dysplasia in newborns can also be:

  • Breech presentation of the fetus. If the baby is not positioned correctly in the mother's belly, this prevents him from actively moving. As a result, the tissues of the joints can be formed in such a way that the child is born with the first stage of dysplasia (the so-called pre-luxation - a condition of the joint when the head of the femur is not yet displaced);
  • The baby's birth weight is too high or too low;
  • Infectious diseases suffered by a woman during pregnancy;
  • Violations metabolic processes in the mother's body and, as a consequence, a violation water-salt metabolism in the fetus;
  • Severe cases of early or late toxicosis;
  • Chronic heart disease that affects the baby's mother.

Those children who are tightly swaddled by inexperienced parents are also at risk. In these babies, a mild form of congenital dysplasia that is not diagnosed in time can develop into subluxation or dislocation of the hip joint.

Signs of dysplasia in newborns

Until the middle of the last century, only obviously severe forms of dysplasia: dislocations and subluxations were considered defects in the development of hip joints in infants in our country. Today, pre-dislocations are also diagnosed, which makes it possible to avoid serious complications and promptly help babies born with improperly formed joints. Therefore, every child is examined by an orthopedic doctor in the first days of life. If your baby is at risk or is experiencing clinical signs diseases, the doctor prescribes an ultrasound: this method is the most reliable in diagnosing hip dysplasia in newborns under the age of one and a half to two months.

Attentive parents may notice the following signs of dysplasia in their child:

  • Limitations of leg abduction. With a baby lying on his back, his legs bent at the knees can be spread so that the angle between the hips is 160-170 degrees (“frog pose”). A sign of dysplasia in a newborn is the inability to assume such a position: the affected joint does not fully extend;
  • "Click Syndrome" When the baby's legs bend, a characteristic clicking sound is heard at the knees and hips;
  • Asymmetry of the buttocks and gluteal folds. A baby lying on his tummy has buttocks different shapes. The folds on the affected leg are higher than on the healthy one. An additional fold appears on the thigh.

If the mother notices at least one of these signs, she should show the child to the doctor. It should be remembered that if a newborn has dysplasia, the count is literally days - the baby needs immediate help, since without it the severity of the disease will increase, and the result may affect the entire later life child, up to restriction of mobility and disability.

Treatment of dysplasia in newborns

To restore full motor functions in children suffering from subluxations or dislocations of the hip joints, manual therapy, massage, physiotherapeutic procedures, physical therapy. Light shape An experienced chiropractor can correct joint dysplasia in a newborn in several sessions. In such cases, when caring for a baby, wide swaddling is recommended: a folded piece of fabric or a flat pad is placed between the baby’s legs, which gently holds the hip joints in a moderately apart position. In more severe cases it is used complex treatment dysplasia in newborns, which takes much longer. In this case, the baby has to wear special “spacers” (Feik’s feather bed or Pavlik’s stirrups), which fix the legs in the “frog pose” and ensure further normal development of the joints. Parents who find this treatment too harsh should not worry: this position does not cause any discomfort to the baby. On the contrary, it is natural for him. By the way, in those regions of the world where it is customary to carry children on their backs with this particular position of their legs, cases of dysplasia in newborns are relatively rare. votes)

At the first appointment with an orthopedist, the mother of a newborn may hear an alarming diagnosis: hip dysplasia. It should not be taken lightly, because in the future the child may be tormented severe pain along with inflammatory processes.

But there is no need to panic. The sooner parents begin to act, the more effectively and quickly they can help the baby. How does this most common orthopedic pathology of infancy manifest itself and what to do about it? Let's discuss.

A little anatomy

Hip dysplasia in newborns is a condition in which the joint is underdeveloped. Normally, it is formed by the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvic bone. The acetabulum looks like a semicircular bowl, framed along the edge by a cartilaginous rim that limits movement in the joint. The cavity itself is filled synovial fluid(sticky liquid, acts as a joint lubricant).

The head of the femur is spherical in shape, so it fits neatly into the acetabulum. It is connected to the body of the bone through a small so-called femoral neck. The neck and head of the femur are covered by an articular capsule. Inside, the joint is supported by ligaments, which provide shock absorption during heavy loads. The main ligament contains a vessel carrying nutritional elements for the head of the femur.

In the figure you can see what the normal and pathological placement of joints looks like

The hip joint, which resembles a ball-and-socket joint, is much more stable than other joints in the body and is very mobile. With its help, movements such as flexion and extension, rotation, adduction and abduction are performed. Of course, ligaments and muscles make his mobility not unlimited.

Dysplasia in newborns is determined when there is underdevelopment of the joint, its defective development, or the ligaments are excessively elastic. Meet following forms dysplasia:

  1. Pre-luxation. It occurs when the joint capsule is stretched, causing the head of the femur to move slightly, but easily return to its desired position.
  2. Hip subluxation. The femoral head is partially displaced relative to the acetabulum, and the ligament is stretched and strained.
  3. Hip dislocation. Complete displacement of the head (it extends beyond the socket).

Whatever the situation, remember that the immaturity of the joint capsule is to some extent explained by physiological reasons. On the one hand, this means that all newborn children have a risk of developing pathology, on the other hand, the condition is not a disease as such, especially since it is successfully treated in infancy, thanks to the active process of formation.

The most dangerous thing that can happen is delay. If the problem was discovered at the beginning life path, in the first 6 months, up to a year, up to a maximum of one and a half years, you can correct the position to an absolutely normal one. When dysplasia in newborns is diagnosed in the second half of the year, the situation becomes more complicated: treatment will take several years, but will be effective.

However, if there was irresponsibility and negligence towards the baby’s health on the part of parents or doctors, and they “decided to save the child” when he walked with a limp on his own, you can help, but it is possible that the baby will feel the consequences of dysplasia throughout his life .

Factors contributing to the development of dysplasia

Why do some children develop hip dysplasia while others do not? Doctors identify a risk group, confirmed by statistical data and a well-founded theory.

It is believed that main reason development of dyslasia is the hormone relaxin. It is produced by a woman during childbirth. Under its influence, the pelvic ligaments relax, and pelvic bones“soften”, becoming as elastic and soft as possible. All this together allows the newborn to go through birth canal.

But the hormone affects not only the mother, it also softens the bones and ligaments of babies, and the effect is stronger on girls, whose bones are initially more plastic than men’s. If a woman gives birth for the first time, the body, experiencing stress, produces relaxin more than usual. Thus, it becomes clear why the following are at risk:

  • firstborn,
  • female babies.

Other factors are:

  • Breech presentation. When a baby is born bottom first, this is not entirely physiological, and there is a risk of dislocating the hip joint.
  • Hereditary predisposition. If there were problems with the hip joints in the female line of the family, it is quite possible that the child “inherits” such a gift from the mother.
  • Large fruit. A baby weighing more than 4 kg does not always easily cross the birth canal. Increased pressure is placed on both the pelvic bones of the mother and the child itself, and the risk of injury increases. According to statistics, the left hip joint is damaged in 60% of cases, which is associated with the forced position of the fetus in the womb.
  • Low water. A small volume of amniotic fluid (less than 1 liter) complicates fetal mobility; this situation is fraught with injuries and pathologies.
  • Tight swaddling. It has been noted that in African countries where children are not swaddled but carried on their backs, the percentage of cases of dysplasia is minimal. And when in Japan in the 70s they began to abandon the traditional tight swaddling for their nation, congenital hip dislocation began to occur not in 3% of babies, but in only 0.2%. So the relationship is obvious.

Why did we consider all these factors? To know how to minimize the risk of developing dysplasia. For example, if a woman’s first birth is a large girl, and also a breech birth, there is every reason to undergo surgery caesarean section. And this is not because it is easier and more profitable for aunt-midwives. First of all, this is caring for the child, because the risk is in this case big.


Asymmetrical folds indicate joint problems

Symptoms

There are signs that should alert the mother and prompt her to visit an orthopedist unscheduled. These include:

  1. Asymmetry of folds. Infants are placed on their tummy and their legs are straightened. Normally, all folds (gluteal, inguinal, popliteal) should be mirrored. The depth of the folds is also assessed. However, this method itself is not very reliable, since with bilateral dysplasia the asymmetry will not be noticeable. Additionally, up to 3 months, uneven folds may be normal.
  2. Hip extension is incomplete. In practice it looks like this: infant lay on the table on your back and, holding your knees, spread your legs to the sides. Normally, the exercise is done without much effort, so that the knees touch the table. But if you feel resistance in your legs when you try to separate them, or one leg fits well but the other does not, this is an alarming signal.
  3. Clicking sound when moving legs apart(symptom of slipping). It is also checked when spreading the hips to the sides. At some point, the doctor feels that the hip cannot be abducted any further, after which the hand “hears” a characteristic click. This is a reliable diagnostic method, but only in the first three weeks.
  4. The situation when one leg is shorter than the other. The baby's limbs are stretched out and they are checked to see if the kneecaps are at the same level. Shortening indicates a severe form of dysplasia when the hip is dislocated.

If you find one of the symptoms in your toddler, this does not mean that he has dysplasia. This just means that you need to consult a doctor for advice.

Diagnostics

Dysplasia in newborns, as well as subluxation, is determined during a routine examination by an orthopedist. This examination is carried out at birth, at one month, at 3 months, at six months and at one year. Then, as a preventative measure, it is recommended to visit a doctor annually.


Right on x-ray you can see the dislocation

The trouble is that about 18% of diseases occur without visible symptoms. Therefore, for accurate diagnosis, methods are used ultrasound examination and x-ray.

What if you don't treat it?

If the immaturity or underdevelopment of the joint is slight, they speak of dysplasia mild degree. In half of the cases it will go away on its own. But only half!

When children are diagnosed with dislocation, subluxation of the hip or severe dysplasia of the hip joints, treatment is necessary, otherwise, as mentioned earlier, the baby will complain of pain in the limbs, fatigue when walking, and the gait will resemble that of a duck.

Treatment methods

Plastering

The essence of therapeutic measures to correct the condition is to fix the joint in the correct position. It takes enough time for the ligaments to strengthen and securely hold the joint. For these purposes, plaster casting is used, when the legs are fixed in an extended, semi-bent position using a plaster cast. The disadvantage of gypsum is its hygroscopicity and very heavy weight.

Orthopedic devices

There are a lot of orthopedic devices that can correct the deviations that have arisen.

Unlike rigid structures that led to complications (in particular, necrosis), Pavlik stirrups allow the baby to move more or less freely. The design includes a chest bandage and boot linings, connected by strips. A pair of straps in the front helps you bend your knees, and a pair in the back spreads your shins out to the sides. Stirrups are made from soft fabrics.

Freyka pillow

It looks like panties, made of dense material that helps maintain the legs in a state of dilation at 90 OC. Wear a bandage if subluxation or dysplasia without dislocation is diagnosed.

Vilensky tire

A device consisting of two leather straps with laces connected by a metal spacer. They come in three types, tailored to the age of the baby. The length of the spacer is adjusted by an orthopedic surgeon, who also shows parents how to put it on correctly. To prevent the child from accidentally moving the adjustment wheel while playing, it is secured with electrical tape. The straps are laced tightly, otherwise they will slip off. The tire can be worn for up to six months. You can only take it off to swim. A variation of this design is the CITO splint.

It consists of saddle-shaped leg spacers with a metal rod inserted between them, shoulder pads, threads connecting the spacers and regulating the length of the product, and Velcro fixing the orthosis.

Tire Volkov

Nowadays it is almost never used, as it practically immobilizes the child, is difficult to select in size and is quite expensive.

Gymnastic and massage techniques

Massage and gymnastics are another means of accelerating the development of joints. All manipulations are carried out only as prescribed by the doctor and only good specialist. Usually the course is divided into 10 sessions, repeated every month. Except therapeutic massage, parents at home can do relaxation exercises daily, including stroking and rubbing.

By using therapeutic exercises Maybe:

  • strengthen the thigh muscles;
  • return the original configuration to the joint;
  • support good blood circulation and trophism of articular tissues, prevent complications such as necrosis;
  • develop the baby's physical activity.

Passive gymnastics is recommended for children under one year of age as elements of a comprehensive massage.

Physiotherapy

  1. Electrophoresis with calcium and phosphorus. Electrodes with a solution are applied to the joint area. Thus, the elements entering the body strengthen the joints.
  2. Warm bath. Water with sea ​​salt has a relaxing effect on the body, improving blood circulation and accelerating regeneration processes.
  3. Applications with ozokerite. They also affect tissue nutrition, promoting speedy recovery.
  4. Ural Federal District. Treatment regimen using ultraviolet rays is selected individually. Its goal is to stimulate the immune system and accelerate regeneration.

Congenital dislocation - how to reduce it

If x-rays or ultrasound indicate hip dislocation in a child aged 1 to 5 years, closed reduction is indicated unless the displacement is severe (otherwise surgery is necessary). What is this method?

Under anesthesia, based on ultrasound data, the doctor returns the femoral head to the correct position, after which a plaster cast is applied for six months, fixing the legs in an extended state. When the bandage is removed, it begins rehabilitation period, including massages, physiotherapy, etc.

Surgery

Sometimes the displacement is so strong that it cannot be eliminated using a closed method. The situation may be complicated by entrapment of the joint capsule, underdevelopment of the femur, or late diagnosis. Then they resort to open surgery.

The disadvantage of surgical interventions is that they are fraught with complications: large blood loss, inflammatory processes, suppuration or tissue necrosis. Therefore, it is important to undergo recommended examinations on time and follow all doctor’s instructions.


Have your child examined by an orthopedist in a timely manner

Prevention

To minimize the possibility of this problem developing, follow these recommendations:

  1. Do not practice tight swaddling. Instead, secure the arms with a diaper and let the legs remain free. If your baby is at risk, master the wide swaddling technique: lay the baby on his back, place two diapers between his legs and secure them with a third one on the baby’s belt.
  2. Slings. Use slings, baby carriers, and kangaroo-style backpacks as appropriate for your age. In African countries, where this method of transporting children is a tradition, the problem under discussion practically does not exist.
  3. Use diapers one size larger. In addition to the fact that it is simply convenient, filled diapers spread the legs to the sides - an excellent preventive measure.
  4. Massage and gymnastics. Exercise strengthen muscles, so a general massage for preventive purposes is done daily.

Let's summarize. We looked at the causes of hip dysplasia and how to treat it. Wearing restraint devices seems like a draining task. Of course, I feel very sorry for the baby, especially when his peers begin to stomp. But in this situation, as they say, time heals, and treatment cannot be interrupted, otherwise all your efforts will be nullified.

Untreated hip subluxation leads to severe chronic diseases. Therefore, follow all the doctor’s recommendations and do not try to put the child on his feet unless the orthopedist gives the go-ahead.

The hip joint connects the largest bones human body, so it has mobility and is able to withstand increased loads. This is ensured by the connection of the head of the femur with the acetabulum of the pelvis using four ligaments. Their cords are pierced nerve endings and vessels, so their damage or pinching provokes degenerative phenomena in the head of the bone.

In newborns, hip dysplasia (HJ) is manifested by the incorrect formation of one of its parts, and the ability to hold the femoral head in place is lost. physiological position. This condition, depending on the characteristics of the displacement of the structures, is characterized as subluxation or dislocation.

Disease statistics:

  • Deviations in the development of this area are recorded in infants quite often. On average, these figures reach 2–3% among children. In Scandinavian countries, hip dysplasia is recorded somewhat more often, while in southern Chinese and Africans it is rare.
  • The pathology most often affects girls. They make up 80% of patients diagnosed with hip dysplasia.
  • On the facts hereditary predisposition indicates that familial cases of the disease are recorded in a third of patients.
  • In 60% of cases, dysplasia of the left hip joint is diagnosed; damage to the right joint or both simultaneously accounts for 20%.
  • The relationship between the traditions of tight swaddling and increased performance morbidity. In countries where it is not customary to artificially limit the mobility of children, cases of hip dysplasia are rare.

REASONS

Elements of the musculoskeletal system are formed at 4–6 weeks of pregnancy. The final formation of joints is completed after the child begins to walk independently.

Most common cause disorders that occur with intrauterine development, are genetic abnormalities (25–30% of cases) that are transmitted through the maternal line. But other factors can also negatively influence these processes.

Causes of hip dysplasia in newborns:

  • A large fetus is susceptible to anatomical displacement of bones when it is abnormally located inside the uterus.
  • Effect on the fetus physical factors And chemicals(radiation, pesticides, drugs).
  • Malposition. First of all, we are talking about breech presentation, in which the fetus rests against the lower part of the uterus not with its head, as it should be normally, but with its pelvis.
  • Kidney disease in the unborn child.
  • Genetic predisposition if parents have the same problems in childhood.
  • Severe toxicosis on initial stage gestation.
  • Uterine tone during pregnancy.
  • Maternal diseases - diseases of the heart and blood vessels, liver, kidneys, as well as vitamin deficiencies, anemia and metabolic disorders.
  • Viral infections suffered during pregnancy.
  • The effect of increased progesterone concentration on last weeks pregnancy can weaken the ligaments of the unborn child.
  • Bad habits and poor nutrition expectant mother, in which there is a deficiency of microelements, vitamins B and E.
  • Dysfunctional environment in the region where parents live, it causes frequent (6 times more) cases of hip dysplasia.
  • Traditions of tight swaddling.

CLASSIFICATION

Types of anatomical disorders in DTS:

  • Acetabular dysplasia is a deviation in the structure of the acetabulum. The limbus cartilage, located along its edges, is affected. Pressure from the femoral head causes its deformation, displacement and inversion into the joint. The capsule is stretched, cartilage ossifies, and the femoral head moves.
  • Epiphyseal. Such dysplasia of the hip joints in newborns is determined by stiffness of the joints, deformation of the limbs and the occurrence of pain. It is possible to change the diaphyseal angle towards increasing or decreasing.
  • Rotational dysplasia. The placement of the bones when viewed in the horizontal plane is incorrect, resulting in clubfoot.

DTS severity:

  • I degree – pre-dislocation. A developmental deviation in which the muscles and ligaments are not changed, the head is located inside the beveled cavity of the joint.
  • II degree – subluxation. Only part of the femoral head is located inside the articulation cavity, as it moves upward. The ligaments are stretched and lose tension.
  • III degree – dislocation. The head of the femur comes completely out of the socket and is located higher. The ligaments are tense and stretched, and the cartilaginous rim fits inside the joint.

SYMPTOMS

The first signs of hip dysplasia in infants may appear when they reach the age of 2–3 months, but they need to be diagnosed in the maternity hospital.

Main symptoms:

  • Restriction during abduction of the unhealthy hip is typical for grades II and III dysplasia. In healthy children, the legs are bent at the knees and easily spread apart at an angle of 80–90 degrees. Pathological changes prevent this, and they can be separated by no more than 60 degrees.
  • Asymmetry of folds under the knees, buttocks and groin. Normally they are symmetrical and of the same depth. Attention should be paid if, when lying on your stomach, the folds on one side are deeper and located higher. This sign is not considered objective, since it cannot indicate a problem with bilateral dysplasia. For many children, the pattern of folds evens out by three months.
  • Symptom of sliding, or clicking. The head of the femur slips during movement, this is accompanied by a characteristic click when the legs are extended or adducted. Such a sign is reliable symptom deviations 2–3 weeks after the birth of the child. When examining children of other ages, this method is not informative.
  • Shortening of one leg is a reliable sign of dysplasia and is detected when combining kneecaps in a lying position. This symptom may indicate a mature hip dislocation.
  • Late standing on your feet and improper walking can be observed already in the last stages of hip dysplasia.

Identification of at least one of the listed signs is a reason to contact a pediatric orthopedist.

The main symptoms of hip dysplasia in newborns can be identified simultaneously with associated symptoms.

Secondary symptoms of the disease:

  • violation of the searching and sucking reflex;
  • Muscle atrophy in the affected area;
  • reduced pulsation of the femoral artery from the side of the changed joint;
  • signs of torticollis.

DIAGNOSTICS

In a baby, signs of hip dysplasia in the form of a dislocation can be diagnosed in the maternity hospital. The neonatologist should carefully examine the child for the presence of such abnormalities in certain pregnancy complications.

The risk group includes children who belong to the category of large children, children with deformed feet and those with aggravated this characteristic heredity. In addition, attention is paid to toxicosis of pregnancy in the mother and the gender of the child. Newborn girls are subject to mandatory examination.

Examination methods:

  • External examination and palpation are carried out to identify characteristic symptoms diseases. In infants, hip dysplasia has signs of both dislocation and subluxation, which are difficult to identify clinically. Any symptoms of abnormalities require a more detailed instrumental examination.
  • Ultrasound diagnostics is effective method identifying abnormalities in the structure of joints in children in the first three months of life. Ultrasound can be performed multiple times and is acceptable when examining newborns. The specialist pays attention to the condition of the cartilage, bones, joints, and calculates the angle of deepening of the hip joint.
  • The X-ray image is not inferior in reliability ultrasound diagnostics, but has a number of significant limitations. The hip joint in children under seven months is poorly visible due to low level ossification of these tissues. Radiation is not recommended for children in their first year of life. In addition, placing an active baby under the device while maintaining symmetry is problematic.
  • CT and MRI provide full picture pathological changes in joints in various projections. The need for such an examination appears when planning surgical intervention.
  • Arthroscopy and arthrography are performed in severe, advanced cases of dysplasia. These invasive methods require general anesthesia for detailed information about the joint.

TREATMENT

Pediatric orthopedists should treat hip dysplasia in infants. The treatment method is determined by the severity of the dysplastic process. The main principle of therapy is the early start of functional treatment, which helps to normalize the anatomical shape of the hip joint and maintain its motor function.

It is noticed that when the hip is abducted, the bones acquire the correct position, and self-reduction of the dislocation occurs. This position helps improve blood supply to the muscles of the limb and prevents their dystrophy.

Methods for treating dysplasia:

  • Wide swaddling is recommended when treating very young patients. A folded diaper 15–20 cm wide is placed between the legs, bent at a right angle.
  • Becker pants have the same principle as a wide swaddle, but are more comfortable to use.
  • Freyk's pillow resembles Becker's pants with sewn-in stiffening ribs.
  • Fixing spacer splints - elastic Vilensky and Volkov splints, as well as fixing gypsum splints.
  • Pavlik stirrups are a bandage made of soft fabric, providing a therapeutic effect on the desired area and not limiting the child’s movements.
  • Reduction of dislocation with further immobilization of the limb in severe cases of the disease in children under 5–6 years of age. This procedure is contraindicated for older patients.
  • Skeletal traction is performed in difficult cases dysplasia in the treatment of children under 8 years of age.
  • Corrective surgery, in which the dislocation is reduced during open or endoscopic surgery. It is performed in case of obvious ineffectiveness of conservative treatment or if it is impossible to reduce the dislocation using gentle methods.
  • Therapeutic gymnastics. The exercises are aimed at bending, straightening the legs, bringing them together and spreading them apart.
  • Physiotherapy - massage, electrophoresis, paraffin baths, mud therapy, ozokerite and warm baths.

Treatment of hip dysplasia in a newborn can be a long and painstaking process. Despite this, you cannot arbitrarily adjust or cancel doctor’s prescriptions, since incorrect treatment can lead to serious consequences.

COMPLICATIONS

The disease requires early diagnosis and start therapy in as soon as possible. In infants, the consequences of hip dysplasia can provoke severe abnormalities leading to disability.

Complications of DTS:

  • dysplastic coxarthrosis in adulthood;
  • impaired mobility of the spine, legs and pelvic girdle;
  • scoliosis;
  • flat feet;
  • neoarthrosis;
  • change in posture;
  • osteochondrosis;
  • tissue death of the femoral head.

PREVENTION

In infants, treatment of hip dysplasia is a mandatory measure to prevent severe complications. The development of dysplasia can be prevented by following preventive measures.

Measures to prevent dysplasia:

  • warning of any negative influences to the fruit;
  • thorough examination of children at risk in the first 3 months after birth;
  • nutritious nutrition for a nursing mother or the use of adapted formulas for feeding the baby;
  • free swaddling of a newborn;
  • diapers that do not put pressure on the pelvis.
  • strict adherence to the doctor’s recommendations when identifying any stages of dysplasia.

PROGNOSIS FOR RECOVERY

Hip dysplasia is a treatable disease. Given that early start therapy under the supervision of an orthopedist and following his recommendations, a complete recovery is possible.

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Hip dysplasia is a common pathology, diagnosed in 3 out of 1000 children in infancy. Most often, the disease is detected immediately after birth and is characterized by underdevelopment of the joint or weakness of the muscle ligaments. Measures to correct pathology should be applied immediately to avoid serious problems with the child's future health.

When the disease is diagnosed early in newborns and infants up to 6 months, dysplasia responds well to treatment and completely disappears by the time the baby takes his first steps. However, in advanced stages or interrupted treatment, problems with the child’s gait may occur. Limping will be accompanied by painful inflammation of the joints.

Causes of dysplasia in children

There are many reasons for the immaturity of the hip joints. Statistics show that girls are more susceptible to the disease (80% of cases), and about 60% of cases suffer from dysplasia of the left hip joint. Most often it develops during pregnancy. During this period, the appearance of anomalies is influenced by the following factors:

  1. Genetic predisposition. If parents had immature joints in childhood, there is a high probability of developing the disease in children.
  2. Hormonal imbalances. The increased content of progesterone in the body of the expectant mother in the last stages can weaken muscle ligaments baby.
  3. Incorrect and inadequate nutrition of a pregnant woman, as a result of which the developing fetus lacks microelements and vitamins involved in the structure of the child’s body.
  4. Increased muscle tone of the uterus, which affects the formation of the baby’s skeleton and organs throughout pregnancy.
  5. A large fetus with an abnormal location in the womb may be subject to anatomical displacement of the bones.
  6. The birth of a premature baby can cause deviations from the norm in further development its organs, muscles and musculoskeletal system.
  7. Bad habits and taking medications also negatively affect the development of the fetus.
  8. Some diseases of mother and child can cause underdevelopment of joints.

Types of hip dysplasia

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The listed factors have different effects on the developing body of the baby, therefore, anomalies of immature joints will be individual. Congenital dysplasia of the hip joints in children, depending on the types of anatomical disorders, is divided into three types:

  1. Acetabular. Congenital pathology associated with immaturity of the joint. Basically, this deviation is classified as type 2a according to Graf (ultrasound classification that determines the maturity of the joints). The disease is characterized by deviations in the structure of the acetabulum. At the same time, the femoral head puts pressure on the limbus cartilage located along its edges, causing its deformation. As a result, the capsule is overstretched and the femoral head is displaced.
  2. Epiphyseal dysplasia. This disease is characterized by stiffness of the joints, which leads to deformation of the limbs with painful sensations. The difference in diffuse angles can change either upward or downward. This is clearly visible on the X-ray image.
  3. Rotary. This type of disease is characterized by improper placement of bones, which leads to clubfoot in the child.

The disease can occur in mild and severe forms. Depending on this, dysplasia is determined by severity:

  • I degree – pre-dislocation. This deviation from the norm develops when the head of the femur enters the beveled socket of the joint, while the muscles and ligaments do not change.
  • II – subluxation. Part of the upwardly displaced femoral head enters the articulation cavity. In addition, the ligaments lose their tone and stretch.
  • III – dislocation. The head of the femur moves upward and completely emerges from the socket. The strained ligaments are stretched, pushing the limbus cartilage into the joint.

Symptoms of the disease

Depending on the type of THD, the disease will manifest itself differently in children at different periods of life. Severe symptoms deviations from normal development attentive parents or a pediatrician may notice during the next examination. If a diagnosis is suspected or made, the doctor prescribes a consultation with an orthopedist, who will subsequently see the child.

In newborns

Congenital hip dysplasia can be detected in newborns while still in the maternity hospital. This disease is difficult to visually recognize in grades 1 and 2, because a baby under 2 months does not feel any abnormalities, but if the problem is not corrected in time, a feeling of discomfort and pain will begin to be felt as bones grow and cartilaginous tissue thickens.

With early dysplasia in newborns, parents may be alarmed by the following symptoms:

  • asymmetry of skin folds in the area of ​​the popliteal cavities and buttocks;
  • the child reacts by crying when his legs try to separate;
  • it is difficult to separate your legs bent at the knees.

Asymmetrical skin folds on the buttocks and hips of a child with dysplasia

However, grade 3 dysplasia in newborns is more pronounced, so it is difficult to miss. In this case, the following symptoms are observed:

  1. Click syndrome. Occurs when the legs are spread and brought together. Always present during dislocation.
  2. Shortening one leg. This symptom is determined in the case severe dislocation limbs. To do this, the child is placed on his back, and his legs are bent at the knees, placing his feet on the table. If asymmetry is noticeable at the knee level, then dysplasia is clearly present.
  3. Hip abduction is limited. Indicates muscle dystrophy with disruption of bone formations.
  4. Visible abnormal placement of the hip.

In infants up to one year old

Hip dysplasia in infants under one year of age will be determined by the local pediatrician during examination. In children, there is problematic hip abduction, and in grades 2 and 3, shortening of the leg.

These symptoms are accompanied by additional signs:

  • asymmetry of skin folds on the legs (but in infants younger than 2 months this symptom- variant of the norm);
  • click syndrome;
  • muscle atrophy;
  • weak pulsation of the femoral artery;
  • disturbance of the sucking reflex.

In babies after one year

Undiagnosed and untreated hip dysplasia will cause many problems for the baby and his parents. As soon as the child begins to walk, he will feel pain and discomfort. Clear signs manifestations of the disease will be:

  • limping;
  • pain when walking followed by inflammation of the joints;
  • duck gait, which occurs with bilateral dislocation.

Consequences of the disease for the child

Untreated hip dysplasia is dangerous. It leads to severe undesirable consequences, which are not always treatable. Subsequently painful inflammatory processes lead to the death of the muscles of the diseased limb, dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system and disability.


The consequences of late detection of hip dysplasia are fraught with disability

Children who have begun to walk experience pelvic distortion, pain and muscle atrophy. Such a child begins to walk late, while limping and being capricious. With age, dysplastic coxoarthrosis develops, which by the age of 30 during hormonal changes increases inflammatory processes in the joint, resulting in immobility. The diseased joint is replaced with an artificial one.

How is dysplasia diagnosed?

When identifying underdeveloped joints in infants, the orthopedist prescribes full diagnostics diseases. Besides visual methods use ultrasound. Infants from 3 months of age may additionally be prescribed x-ray diagnostics. X-rays are always used if there is a suspicion of dislocation and bilateral immaturity of the joints. All these methods help the doctor determine the severity of the disease.

After studying the results of the ultrasound and photos of the patient’s X-ray, the orthopedist will make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment (we recommend reading:). The child will be registered and the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment will be monitored over time. In general, infants up to six months of age recover quickly; it is more difficult to treat children after a year.

Features of treatment

Based on these examinations, the doctor prescribes orthopedic devices, physiotherapy and massage. They help strengthen and develop muscles, improve blood flow and rapid tissue regeneration.

However, when these methods are ineffective or the disease is diagnosed later, surgical intervention is used.

Conservative methods

For the treatment of stage 1 THD in newborns, the doctor prescribes wide swaddling (we recommend reading:). The baby is placed on his back, his legs are spread apart and cushions of 2-3 diapers are placed between them. All this is fixed with another diaper on the baby’s belt. This method is used for both treatment and prevention hip dysplasia joints. For grades 2 and 3, orthopedic devices are prescribed:

  1. Pavlik stirrups. The baby's legs are fixed in a bent and spread position using straps and a bandage that is attached to the chest.
  2. Vilensky tire. It is put on the child once by an orthopedist and is not removed until complete recovery. Consists of straps and a spacer, the length of which is adjustable.
  3. Tübinger cut. It is a design of shoulder pads and 2 saddle-shaped spacers, which are connected by a metal rod.
  4. Tire Volkova. Prescribed for children from 1 month to 3 years. The child’s torso is secured in the crib structure, and the legs are secured in its side parts.
  5. Freika tire. Prescribed for grade 1 and 2 dysplasia without dislocation. The splint fixes the child's legs at an angle of more than 90°.

Pavlik stirrups

When the dislocation is formed, and conservative treatment did not produce results, closed reduction of the joint is used. This operation is performed on children aged 1 to 5 years. After her on sore hip A plaster cast is applied for up to 6 months. Typically, such treatment is difficult for children to tolerate.

Physiotherapy

Depending on the severity of the disease, the doctor may prescribe physical therapy as additional treatment. In combination with the main one, it will help the child cope with the disease faster. These methods include:

  1. Ural Federal District. Prescribed individually, accelerates tissue regeneration and stimulates the immune system.
  2. Electrophoresis with phosphorus and calcium to strengthen bones and joints (see also:).
  3. Applications with ozokerite. They are applied to the diseased joint and promote tissue restoration.
  4. Warm bath with sea salt. Activates protective functions, improves blood circulation and promotes rapid tissue regeneration.

Therapeutic massage and gymnastics

Exercise therapy and massage are prescribed individually. These methods are used in complex therapy or for the purpose of preventing dysplasia. The massage is carried out in courses of 10 days exclusively by a specialist as prescribed by a doctor, after which it is repeated every other month. After the sessions physical therapy Usually parents are instructed to continue studying at home.


Dysplasia detected in time can be eradicated with massages and exercise therapy alone.

The purpose of these methods is:

  • muscle strengthening;
  • improved blood circulation;
  • maintaining joint mobility and development physical activity child;
  • preventing the occurrence of complications.

Surgical intervention

With severe underdevelopment of the joint head, late diagnosis, ineffective treatment and severe dislocation with displacement, there is an urgent need for surgical intervention. Operative method used to restore joint mobility and blood circulation. However, there is a high risk of complications after surgery:

  • inflammatory processes;
  • severe blood loss;
  • suppuration of the joint;
  • tissue necrosis.

Preventive measures

Many parents are faced with a situation where it is quite difficult to recognize hip dysplasia and the diagnosis is made when the disease is already in an advanced state.

There are cases when the disease develops gradually. Prevention is recommended to prevent the occurrence of THD. TO preventive methods relate.