Rationale: Hip dysplasia (underdeveloped hip socket) is relatively rare. Studies have shown that routine ultrasound screening of all newborns does not reduce the number of children with late-diagnosed dysplasia. In some cases, healthy hips may be misclassified as immature, leading to unnecessary treatment. If the newborn examination does not reveal mechanical instability in the hip joint and the child has no risk factors—such as a family history of hip dysplasia or breech presentation—ultrasound screening is not warranted.
References:
• Mahan ST, Katz JN, Kim YJ. To screen or not to screen? A decision analysis of the utility of screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2009 Jul:91(7):1705-1719.
• Laborie LB, Markestad TH, Davidsen H. Bruras KR, Aukland SM, Bjorlykke JA, Reigstad H. Indrekvam K, Lehmann TG, Engesaeter IO, Engesaeter LB, Rosendahl K. Selective ultrasound screening for developmental hip dysplasia: effect on management and late detected cases. A prospective study during 1991-2006. Pediatri Radiol. 2014 Apr;44 (4): 410-424.
• Shorter D, Hong T, Osborn DA. Cochrane Review: Screening programs for developmental dysplasia of the hip in newborn infants. Evid Based Child Health. 2013; 8(1): 11-54.
• Shaw BA, Segal LS, Section on Orthopaedics. Evaluation and referral for developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants. Pediatrics 2016; 138(6)