Assessing a Limited Ultrasound Protocol in DDH

A Non-Inferiority Trial Assessing a Limited Ultrasound Protocol in the Treatment of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a common diagnosis in children that if untreated may lead to degeneration and arthritis of the hip joint at a young age. Ultrasound imaging is used to monitor progress of the developing hip joint during treatment. Initial data from our practice suggests that interim ultrasounds do not alter the course or outcome of treatment. Additionally, these ultrasounds add significant time to clinic visits and carry a substantial cost to the health care system. The goal of this study is to determine if limiting the number of ultrasounds during treatment results in the same outcomes while also evaluating the amount of time and money saved by omitting the ultrasounds.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 0-6 months at time of diagnosis
• Clinical and Ultrasound diagnosis of stable developmental dysplasia of the hip
• Children with dislocated/ unstable DDH will be included once the hip becomes stable
• Treated with Pavlik harness
• Assessed and treated at the SickKids Baby Hip Clinic

Exclusion Criteria:

• Underlying neuromuscular disease
• Teratologic hip dysplasia
• Prior treatment at other institutions
• Non-compliance with treatment protocol