Our daughter is scheduled for hip surgery to correct a problem with dysplasia. After hearing all the possible complications that can occur, we're wondering if it wouldn't be better to just let her take her chances without surgery and see what happens. What do you think?
Hip dysplasia refers to a shallow hip socket. Without a deep enough socket, the round head of the femur (thigh bone) can slip out. This is called a subluxation. If it comes out all the way, it's a dislocation.
In children, the proper development of the hip socket and round surface of the femoral head depends on the force and pressure from weight-bearing. Standing up and walking are the major activities that help develop the hip. If the hip is not properly positioned, the compressive load will cause further deformity.
Joint damage leading to hip dislocation and later to arthritis occurs because of the abnormal mechanics of the hip joint with dysplasia. The results of studies are clear: treatment to correct the problem is important. You are on the right path in following your surgeon's advice.
Problems can occur with any surgical procedure. The medical staff is required to alert you to all the possible things that can go wrong. There is a chance that something can happen but the risks are fairly low. The positive benefits of this operation outweigh the potential problems.
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