Hip dislocation is an orthopedic problem that occurs when the bones that make up the hip joint do not come together correctly. It is usually congenital and is also called "developmental hip dysplasia". Early diagnosis and correct hip dislocation treatment, paves the way for a healthy life by preventing the progression of hip dislocation.
What are the Conservative Hip Dislocation Treatment Methods?
Hip dislocation, when diagnosed early, can be successfully treated with non-surgical, i.e. conservative methods. These methods aim to ensure that the hip joint develops in the correct position without requiring surgery. In appropriate cases, conservative treatment can provide permanent recovery.
One of the most common conservative methods is the Pavlik bandage. It is usually used on babies between 0-6 months. This special bandage keeps the baby's hips in a certain position, allowing the joint to develop naturally. The duration of use varies according to the doctor's recommendation, but usually lasts from a few weeks to a few months.
In some cases, more flexible splints or fixation devices may be preferred. These devices stabilize the hip at the correct angle without completely restricting movement. They can be especially effective in mild dislocations.
In cases where methods such as the Pavlik bandage fail to produce results or in advanced cases, a cast is used to fix the hip. In this method, the hip is fixed in a cast after the reduction (setting it in place). The cast usually remains for a few weeks and the process is monitored with regular check-ups.
Conservative hip dislocation treatment methods, regular follow-up and early intervention give very successful results. Therefore, it is very important to consult an orthopedic specialist without wasting time in babies with suspected hip dislocation.
When is Surgical Hip Dislocation Treatment Necessary?
Hip dislocation can usually be treated non-surgically when diagnosed early. However, in some cases, surgery is unavoidable. Surgery hip dislocation treatmentIt is applied in cases where conservative methods do not yield successful results or in cases where the diagnosis is late.
Especially in babies diagnosed after the 6th month, the structure of the hip joint becomes less flexible. This makes it difficult to correct the joint with methods such as bandaging, splinting or plastering. If the hip joint cannot be put back into place with these methods or if there is a risk of re-dislocation, surgery is required.
If hip dislocation is noticed in children who have just started walking and in older ages, surgery is usually the first choice. In such cases, both the joint structure has developed and the deformation may have progressed. This makes it difficult for non-surgical interventions to be effective.
The decision for surgical treatment is not only based on age. The shape of the hip joint, the degree of dislocation, limited movement, pain and factors affecting daily life are also taken into consideration. The doctor makes a decision based on imaging tests (x-ray, ultrasound, MRI) and physical examination results.
Surgical treatment aims to reposition the hip joint in its correct position. It also aims to prevent long-term functional loss. A successful surgery allows the child to walk healthily and improve their quality of life. As a result, surgery hip dislocation treatment, is an effective and permanent solution in suitable cases. However, correct timing and selection of a specialist surgeon are of great importance.
What are the Surgical Hip Dislocation Treatment Methods?
If hip dislocation is not detected early, surgical intervention may be required. Surgery may also be preferred in cases that cannot be corrected with conservative methods. Surgical treatment is applied to bring the hip joint into the correct position and prevent long-term movement restrictions. The method to be applied is determined by the patient's age, the degree of dislocation and the joint structure.
It is one of the most commonly used surgical methods in babies. It is performed under general anesthesia. The hip joint is placed in its place without difficulty and then fixed with a body cast (spica cast). Closed reduction is preferred in mild dislocations and is applied without an incision.
It is preferred in cases where the closed method is unsuccessful. The surgeon reaches the joint area directly and corrects the dislocation. In the same session, the soft tissues are released and the hip's mobility is increased. It is usually applied to older children.
Osteotomy is a method used in cases where the bone structure needs to be changed. The joint is made more stable by making incisions in the bones around the hip. It is usually done with open reduction. It aims to restore the hip to its natural structure and to keep it strong in the long term.
Surgery is required if the desired results have not been achieved in previous surgeries or if dislocation has occurred again. These types of surgeries are more complex and require detailed planning.
Surgical methods should be determined specifically for the patient by a specialist orthopedic surgeon. Correct intervention is of great importance for the child's healthy hip development and a comfortable life.
What is the Post-Hip Dislocation Treatment Process?
After hip dislocation treatment The process may vary depending on the treatment method applied and the age of the patient. Whether conservative or surgical treatment is applied, the healing process should be followed carefully. Regular check-ups should not be neglected.
After conservative methods, the patient's hip joint is checked at intervals. X-rays or ultrasound imaging are used to monitor whether the hip is developing correctly. During this process, full compliance by families with the treatment increases the success rate. After the cast is removed, hip movements can be supported with light exercises.
The process after surgical treatment can be a bit more complicated. A few days of hospitalization are usually required after surgery. During this time, pain control is provided, wound care is provided, and the patient's first movements are observed. If a spica cast is applied, this cast usually remains for 4-6 weeks. Then, the physical therapy process begins with the doctor's guidance.
Physical therapy is of great importance both to strengthen muscles and to increase mobility. In the post-treatment period, walking training, balance exercises and flexibility exercises can be applied. Family support and regular doctor check-ups ensure that this period progresses healthily.
In the long term, the development and shape of the hip joint should be monitored regularly. A successful hip dislocation treatment Afterwards, children can continue their normal lives in a healthy way.
