Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: Diagnosis, Management, and Clinical Implications in Pediatric Orthopedics

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) represents a spectrum of abnormalities affecting the anatomical structure and stability of the hip joint in infants and children. It ranges from subtle acetabular dysplasia to complete hip dislocation. DDH is one of the most common orthopaedic conditions in newborns and, if left undetected or untreated, leading to long-term disability, including early-onset osteoarthritis and significant functional impairment. Early detection through physical examination and imaging techniques—such as ultrasonography and radiographs—plays a critical role for early management and better outcomes. This review summarizes the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic modalities, classification systems, and treatment strategies for DDH, with emphasis on age-specific management approaches. A comprehensive understanding of DDH is essential to provide timely interventions that ensure optimal outcomes and minimize future disability. The integration of multidisciplinary care involving pediatricians, radiologists, and orthopedic surgeons is also key in achieving holistic patient-centered care. Keywords: Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip; DDH; hip dislocation; Pavlik harness; pediatric orthopedics.