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Developmental dysplasia of the hip

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Congential hip dislocation

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Developmental dysplasia of the hip

Definition:

DDH is a malformation of the hip joint found in babies or young children.

Alternative Names:
Developmental dislocation of the hip joint; Developmental hip dysplasia; DDH; Congenital dysplasia of the hip; Congenital dislocation of the hip; CDH

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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The hip is a ball and socket joint with the ball (called the femoral head) coming from the top part of the femur (thigh bone) and the socket (called the acetabulum) coming from the pelvis. Developmental hip dislocation varies in the degree of malformation. The hip may be all the way out of the joint or the acetabulum may simply be a little shallow.

The cause is unknown, but genetic factors may play a role. Problems resulting from very mild developmental dysplasia of the hip may not become apparent until the person is in their 30's or 40's.

One or both hips may be involved. Risk factors include being the first child, being female, a breech delivery, and a family history of the disorder. It occurs in about 1 out of 1,000 births.

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