Ultrasound examination and treatment of the infant hip joint

The last monograph on ultrasound examination of the infant hip joint was published almost thirty years ago. Since then, the principles for examining and preventing developmental dysplasia of the hip have been standardised, leading to a significant reduction in children's exposure to X-rays and, thanks to early diagnosis, a considerable decrease in the need for surgical interventions.
The treatment and prevention of congenital and developmental hip defects in children has a long tradition in our country. The current system of checks, known as the 'triple-filter' system, is one of the most sophisticated methodological guidelines and serves as a model for many other countries. The official bulletin – the methodological guideline for examining infant hip joints – has also been updated to include the requirement for hip ultrasound examinations, substantially limiting the previously used system of X-ray checks.
The authors aim to introduce a unified system for the examination, classification, and subsequent treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). This new monograph also outlines treatment strategies for DDH in line with global trends and includes a chapter on examining hip joint effusion. The publication will provide proper guidance for ultrasound examinations and contribute to the early detection and adequate treatment of developmental and congenital hip defects.
This publication should unify the prevention and detection of DDH – covering examinations by paediatricians, orthopaedists, and at sonography and radiology departments.