Is DDH still a problem

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the most frequent developmental disorder of the locomotor system. It is detected among 0.1–5.2% of newborns (1, 2). This might be the reason, that there is a high interest to detect DDH cases as early as possible. Undetected or late cases lead to catastrophes for the patient and family. Limping, leg length discrepancy, pain, frequent operations and sometimes femoral head necrosis, osteoarthritis, disability and finally total hip replacement even in young ages are results of a dysplastic hip that is not diagnosed on time or left untreated or treated improperly. Independent from individual patient problems the treatment costs for late or neglected cases are enormous. Costs of hospitalization, operations, rehabilitation, and indirect costs because of limited ability to work are incredible high. In countries with poor common health-system these patients have no chance for a normal life because of their disability.