Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: An Audit of the Ultrasound Screening Programme.

Aims Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is an important cause of disability in children and young adults. Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid more invasive interventions and long-term morbidity. This study examines the ultrasound screening programme conducted in University Hospital Waterford (UHW), and the outcomes for infants with DDH in the Southeast of Ireland. Methods We conducted an audit of all the DDH screening ultrasounds performed in UHW in the year 2020, a total of 992 infants. Data included referral and ultrasound times, screening results, interventions, and outcomes. Results Of those screened, 255 (26%) were referred to the Orthopaedic clinic, with a significant female majority of nearly 3:1. At the time of writing, only two infants were ultimately referred for further management of persistent DDH, the rest being successfully treated by less invasive interventions such as harnessing and bracing. There were no babies scanned within the recommended 6 weeks who later presented with a dislocated hip or required tertiary referral for DDH management. Conclusion The ultrasound screening programme in UHW is shown to be successful in the prompt diagnosis and early treatment of DDH. This plays a significant role in avoiding the lifelong disabling outcomes of untreated DDH, and the invasive surgical procedures required in the management of late-stage disease.