Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery in India

Overview

Pediatric hip dysplasia surgery involves corrective procedures to address hip joint abnormalities in children. Surgical interventions aim to realign the hip joint and promote normal development, reducing the risk of long-term complications and ensuring optimal hip function.

Why Would Someone Need to Have Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery?

Pediatric hip dysplasia surgery becomes necessary when a child exhibits hip joint abnormalities, often characterized by improper development. If left untreated, hip dysplasia can lead to long-term issues such as pain, limited mobility, and arthritis. Surgery aims to realign the hip joint, allowing for proper growth and function, and preventing potential complications associated with untreated hip dysplasia in the child's later years.

Conditions that can require Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery

• Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)

• Congenital hip dislocation

• Hip subluxation

• Acetabular dysplasia

• Hip instability in children

• Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (in some cases)

• Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) leading to hip dysplasia

Requirements & Evaluation for Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Evaluation for pediatric hip dysplasia surgery involves thorough clinical and imaging assessments. Requirements include confirming the diagnosis through physical examination, hip ultrasound, and possibly X-rays. The child's age, severity of dysplasia, and hip joint stability are considered. The surgical intervention aims to realign the hip joint, and the decision is based on factors like the child's age, degree of dysplasia, and the potential for successful correction through surgical means.

Different Types of Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Several types of surgeries can be performed for pediatric hip dysplasia, depending on the severity and specific conditions. Common procedures include:

• Open Reduction with Pelvic Osteotomy:

Surgical repositioning of the hip joint, often combined with pelvic bone restructuring.

• Closed Reduction:

Non-invasive manipulation to reposition the hip joint without surgical incisions.

• Salter Innominate Osteotomy:

Surgical modification of the pelvic bone to improve hip joint stability.

• Pemberton Osteotomy:

Pelvic bone surgery to enhance coverage of the femoral head.

• Dega Osteotomy:

Pelvic osteotomy to improve hip joint coverage and stability.

The choice of surgery depends on factors like the child's age, the severity of dysplasia, and the specific nature of the hip joint abnormalities.

Procedure for Pediatric Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Before the Procedure:

• Diagnosis Confirmation:

Thorough clinical examination, imaging studies (ultrasound, X-rays), and possibly MRI.

• Medical Evaluation:

Assessing the child's overall health and suitability for surgery.

• Parental Education:

Explanation of the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and postoperative care.

After the Procedure:

• Immediate Postoperative Care:

Monitoring in the recovery room.

• Hospital Stay:

Duration varies based on the procedure and the child's response.

• Pain Management:

Medications for pain control.

• Physical Therapy:

Initiating gentle exercises to promote hip joint mobility.

• Follow-up Imaging:

Periodic X-rays to monitor the hip's alignment.

Risks:

• Infection:

Risk of postoperative infections.

• Bleeding:

Potential for bleeding managed during surgery.

• Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury:

Rare but possible, especially in complex surgeries.

• Failure to Achieve Ideal Alignment:

Despite surgical efforts, complete correction may not always be possible.

Benefits:

• Improved Hip Joint Alignment:

Correction of dysplasia for better joint stability.

• Prevention of Long-Term Complications:

Reducing the risk of arthritis and other complications.

• Enhanced Function and Mobility:

Facilitating normal hip joint development.

Recovery:

• Immediate Postoperative Period:

Restricted weight-bearing and use of assistive devices.

• Physical Therapy Continuation:

Progressive exercises to restore strength and flexibility.

• Gradual Return to Activities:

Incremental resumption of normal activities.

• Follow-up Appointments:

Regular monitoring of hip joint alignment and overall recovery.