Universal Ultrasound-screening for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Newborn

All newborn from the period 12.1988 to 31.12.2006 During the two last decades, hip ultrasound has gained acceptance as an accurate screening test for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and for monitoring the development and treatment of the condition. Debate continues over whether DDH that is detected by ultrasonography is necessarily clinically relevant. The diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound imaging for DDH in the screening population has not been investigated adequately. Studies that investigate the natural course of the disorder, the optimal treatment for DDH, and the best strategy for ultrasound screening are needed. Ultrasound screening at birth for DDH in all newborn infants is standard practice in some European countries but not in the United Kingdom, the United States, or Scandinavia. Evidence is insufficient to support or reject general ultrasound screening of newborns for DDH. (N.F.Woolacott etc 2006, systematic review BMJ) At Vestre Viken HF, Kongsberg, Norway, the investigators implemented universal ultrasound screening in 1998. We will present the long term outcome, including radiographs of the hips after 5-12 years.