Information for Patients

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) refers to abnormal acetabular morphology with lateralization of the femoral head. This can range in overall spectrum from decreased acetabular coverage of the femoral head (dysplasia) to actual dislocation of the hip joint. Abnormal alignment of the hip joint can lead to abnormal forces resulting in pain and early degenerative changes. Many different treatment options can be considered for patients with DDH, depending on the age of the child and the progression of deformity. This article focuses on the late presentation of DDH and treatment modalities to prevent early degenerative changes of the hip joint. Because children and adolescents have different presentations, different assessments, and different treatment options, walking age dysplasia/dislocation and adolescent dysplasia are discussed separately.