Techniques, methods and principles of ultrasound analysis of hip joint development

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a disorder of significant incidence frequency in the Croatian population and of recognizable morbidity, which , however, can be treated. There is no unanimity of opinion concerning the most appropriate diagnostic method for detecting pathologic development of the acetabulum and determining the position of the femoral head. Today there should remain little doubt about the value of ultrasonography as the method of choice in the diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip. The fact that articular cartilage and soft tissue, the main components of an undeveloped hip, can be visualized by ultrasound, argues for its indisputable advantage over conventional radiographic techniques. Ultrasound methods convey information on which screening, diagnosis and treatment can be based. The use of various ultrasonographic examination techniques necessitates the development and differentiation of the methods of ultrasonographic screening, diagnosis and follow up. The methods mentioned result from experience with the use of various techniques for the examination of the hip. In our opinion, certain clarification is needed in the area of terminology used for ultrasound examination of the hip. Moreover the principles and techniques require differentiation from ultrasonographic methods as well as accurate definitions.