Hip dysplasia is a serious birth injury caused by complications during the labor and delivery process that results in broken femurs or other difficulties.
What is hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is historically known as congenital dysplasia of the hip (CDH) and more commonly referred to as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). This condition is the result of the hip joint not developing properly, and it has many different stages. In some cases, the ligaments are just loose. Others might have a full dislocation of the hip. This typically occurs because of the hip socket being too shallow, the ligaments being loose or the bones being out of position.
When it comes to the labor and delivery process, things will usually only get worse. As the legs are squeezed out of the mother’s body, they can suffer a variety of injuries. This can cause things like dislocation, broken bones, etc. after labor and delivery.
If your child suffered hip dysplasia as a result of a birth injury should contact a Louisville injury attorney to discuss your case. Your child shouldn’t have to suffer from the mistakes of others.
Risk factors for hip dysplasia
There isn’t really any known reason or way to identify whether this condition will occur or not. It can be congenital or develop over the infancy years. Some risk factors for developing hip dysplasia include:
- female;
- first-born child;
- born breech; and
- genetic predisposition.
Common signs of hip dysplasia and diagnosis
- one leg appearing shorter than the other;
- legs turned outward;
- folds in skin appearing uneven; and
- leg spacing may be wider than normal.
Not all forms of hip dysplasia present with such noticeable symptoms. However, if these signs are noticed, a doctor should perform necessary tests, including physical examinations and x-rays to check for signs of hip dysplasia.
Typically, Barlow and Ortolani tests will be performed to diagnose this condition. This involves using special movements and manipulations of the hip joint in order to check for a clicking sound or feeling. This click is indicative that the hip is somehow improperly formed. Through ultrasound, a doctor will examine the shape and position of the hip. The results will generally show a shallow socket with the ball outside of it.
Treatment for hip dysplasia
The treatment for this condition depends on age, but getting it resolved at a young age is preferable for better results. As the body ages, it becomes less accommodating to treatment, which can create a lifetime injury or disability because of this condition. Treatment includes observation, bracing or casting and even surgery for the most severe cases. Identifying the condition and its severity will make the difference.
According to the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, 2-3 of every 1,000 babies will require some kind of treatment for hip dysplasia.
Free consultation with a Louisville birth injury attorney
This condition might just happen on its own. However, if your child was injured during labor or delivery because of someone else’s mistake, you need to get justice. When you have a qualified lawyer on your side, you will be able to fight back and get compensation for any type of birth injuries that you are dealing with.
Has Your Family Been Impacted By A Birth Injury?
If your family has been impacted by a birth injury you need to speak with an experienced birth injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at 888.450.4456 to schedule a free consultation.