Reliability of ultra-sound screening in detecting neonatal hip development disorder

Introduction: Hip Development Disorder (HDD) is the most frequent anomaly of the locomotoric system in a newborn. The incidence ranges from 2 to 4% and the causes are multifactorial. It is diagnosed by clinical and ultrasound screening because of high prevalence and morbidity, and it is curable. The objective of the study is to show the reliability of primary ultrasound screening in diagnosing neonatal hip development disorder as compared to clinical examination. Examinees and methods: HDD was observed over a three-year period in the Neonatology Department of the Clinic for Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Tuzla. In the first day after birth, both hips were examined by ultrasound in the risk group neonates (positive clinical findings, positive family history, pelvic presentation, C-section, oligohydramion, anomalies of locomotoric system and first-born child), while both hips were clinically examined in all live births. Results: 7402 (55.05%) newborns of both sexes were examined by ultrasound, and 13 444 were examined clinically. The incidence of HDD in the risk group is 8.86% in general population and 48 to 1000 of live births. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between ultrasound and clinical method in diagnosing HDD (x=42,46,p<0,0001) with diagnostic accuracy of 89.45% and diagnostic sensitivity of 95%. Conclusion: Primary ultrasound screening in diagnosing HDD differs compared to clinical examination. It is not completely reliable when used alone, especially if the person who is doing the examination is not experienced.