Brace treatment for DDH
Orthopaedic fact sheet
Babies with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)
are generally referred to a paediatric orthopaedic
surgeon or paediatrician. The way DDH is treated
depends on the child’s age and the severity of the
condition.
a
b
Infants with very mild or borderline DDH may be
monitored with a follow-up hip ultrasound and clinical
examination in around six weeks.
Babies with confirmed DDH are generally treated in
an ‘abduction brace’, which holds the legs apart. This
helps the hip socket to deepen and the hip to become
stable with growth. There are different types of brace
available and the doctor will determine which is best
for your baby (Figure 1).
While undergoing brace treatment your child will be
seen regularly by their doctor to monitor their progress
and check the brace. Hip ultrasounds (usually every four
to six weeks) are used to monitor hip joint development
until the baby is around six months old. In older babies
and young children x-ray is used. Most babies wear the
brace for around 12 weeks; however, this varies
depending on how your child responds to treatment.
Older babies or those with more severe DDH may need
to wear the brace for longer.
Some babies might need to wear the brace all day
and night, and wash with a sponge bath. Skin care
is important. Check the skin under the brace regularly
for signs of pressure or rubbing. Also check that your
child can bend and straighten their knees while wearing
the brace. Speak with your doctor if you have
any concerns.
A rare complication of brace treatment is a growth
problem of the femoral head (avascular necrosis).
This may not be evident until the child is older. It is
important that your child visits the doctor for follow-up
after brace treatment has finished.
This fact sheet has been developed by The Royal Children’s Hospital. The information
contained in this fact sheet is intended to assist, not replace, discussion with your doctor
or health care professional. The Royal Children’s Hospital and the Victorian Paediatric
Orthopaedic Network do not accept any responsibility, and will not be liable for, any
inaccuracies, omissions, information perceived as misleading, or the success of any treatment
regimen detailed in the fact sheet. Fact sheets may not be reproduced without permission.
©2010 The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), Victoria, Australia.
Last updated October 2011. ERC 100373
Figure 1. Bracing for DDH includes
the Dennis-Browne brace (a)
Pavlik harness (b)