Pavlik Harness initiation on Barlow positive hips: Can we wait?

Cook, Katherine A; Schmitt, Meghan; Ingram, Michael; Larson, Jill E; Burgess, Jamie; Janicki, Joseph A · J Orthop · 2019

retrospective_cohort · Level III

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Abstract

We investigated if infants with a Barlow positive hip(s) have natural hip stabilization and can thus avoid Pavlik Harness (PH) treatment. We conducted a chart review for infants who presented within two weeks of life, had a Barlow positive hip, and were deferred treatment. Of the thirty infants, eighteen were treated with PH at 4-6 weeks or 12 weeks due to persistent dysplasia. Twelve infants avoided PH entirely. There were zero cases of PH failure. Parents can be counseled that deferring treatment until at least 4-6 weeks of age might avoid treatment altogether without an increased risk of harness failure.

Anatomy