Anterior Hip Ultrasound: A Useful Technique in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hips

Infant developmental dysplasia of the hips arises when there is an interruption to normal joint development, usually present at birth but may be a later development. It has a wide spectrum of severity with potentially disastrous long-term complications if left untreated. Incidence is highly variable, often being attributed to differences of opinion in definition and diagnosis; however, there is consensus that ultrasound be used in screening and management. The anterior hip ultrasound technique is underutilised but is of value due to the additional confidence it provides regarding joint stability. The ability to relate the acquired ultrasound image to hip anatomy and a technical appreciation of the technique are crucial to successful use. The method is described and its use within previous literature briefly outlined. Using pictorial ultrasound imaging examples to demonstrate the technique, we aim to highlight the anterior approach as a useful addition to ultrasound assessment of infant developmental dysplasia of the hips. Knowledge and understanding of different techniques is essential for practitioners involved in the diagnosis and management of this multifaceted and vigorously debated condition.