Evaluation of developmental dysplasia, Perthes disease, and neuromuscular dysplasia of the hip in children before and after surgery: an imaging update.

Abstract

This article focuses on the current status of radiologic imaging before and after surgery of a limited spectrum of common hip disorders in children: developmental hip dysplasia, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and neuromuscular hip dysplasia. An understanding of the anatomic abnormality, of when surgical intervention is needed, of the types of surgery, and of the complications influences the ability of the radiologist to interpret radiologic studies and to communicate information to the referring physician. Technologic advances in imaging that provide new information about the developing hip and standard radiographic evaluation of the abnormal hip are discussed. The diagnostic and treatment goals for all types of hip disease are similar. The goals of all therapy are to preserve the full range of motion of the hip and to prevent premature degenerative changes by maintaining a round, well-shaped femoral head that is contained by and congruous with the acetabulum.