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Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), previously known as congenital hip dysplasia is a common disorder affecting infants and young children. In this condition, the normal relationship between the round head of the femur (thighbone) and the cup-shaped acetabulum (hip socket) is altered. Usually, the acetabulum is too shallow or sloping to hold the femur in place.
A Pavlik harness can be used for three to nine months. The harness keeps the hip in flexion and abduction. The right amount of pressure and contact between the joint surfaces helps make sure the hip joint develops normally. The head of the femur inside the acetabulum helps shape the joint as it continues to form.
The harness is worn until the doctor can no longer move the hip in and out of the socket. Most children caught early (first three months) have good-to-excellent results with this treatment.
In the infant older than 6 months, the Pavlik harness may not work. The child may be too large to wear the harness or may be too active to keep the harness on all day. If the harness doesn't work or the child is too old for a harness, then surgery may be needed.
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