Hip dysplasia is a congenital developmental disorder of the hip, which is usually detected in babies by ultrasound and usually heals without consequences with proper therapy. So-called residual dysplasia, in which the hip does not develop properly despite treatment during childhood, is relatively rare nowadays. However, if hip dysplasia in children is overlooked or treated too late, serious consequential damage can result.
Joint wear and tear threatens if left untreated
Premature wear and tear of the hip joint (coxarthrosis) then often occurs even in young adults. Not infrequently, even early joint replacement becomes necessary. With us you will learn what symptoms hip dysplasia causes in adults and what treatment options are available.
Hip dysplasia: symptoms sometimes late in life
Undiagnosed hip dysplasia may not cause symptoms for the first time until adulthood. Usually, pain in the groin or lateral hip then occurs initially during sports or heavy exertion. Sudden joint blockage, a feeling of instability, or “popping” of the joint may also occur.
Hip pain associated with osteoarthritis
If hip dysplasia is not treated, the hip joint can be permanently damaged. This is because the incorrect loading of the joint surfaces causes the joint to wear out very quickly – in some circumstances, painful hip joint arthrosis occurs even before the age of 40.
This is then manifested by severe pain with the smallest loads and when sitting and standing for long periods of time. In most cases, the mobility of the hip is also reduced and the ability to walk is restricted. Often, those affected are severely restricted in their daily lives as a result and are dependent on painkillers.
Diagnosis of “hip dysplasia” by X-ray.
In adults, hip dysplasia can usually be easily diagnosed by an X-ray. In it, the shape and position of the hip joint can be easily assessed. In addition, it can be seen whether osteoarthritis of the hip is already present.
By asking about the symptoms (medical history) and a physical examination, the doctor can estimate the severity of the complaints in order to select the right treatment method.
Therapy: surgery usually necessary
Unlike babies, adults with hip dysplasia usually require surgery. This is because the deformity of the hip joint must be corrected to prevent further damage to the joint. For this purpose, there are various surgical procedures that aim to better “fit” the femoral head into the socket and thus achieve a joint position that is as natural as possible.
The most common is the so-called triple osteotomy according to Tönnis. In this procedure, the ilium, pubic bone and ischium are cut and reattached in an altered position. This reshapes the malformed acetabulum so that it can better enclose the femoral head.
Joint replacement for hip dysplasia.
The success of surgical treatment for hip dysplasia in adults depends largely on how badly the hip joint is already damaged. If there is no osteoarthritis or only minor osteoarthritis, the symptoms can be significantly relieved by surgery.
However, if the wear and tear is pronounced, an artificial hip joint may be the only way for an adult with hip dysplasia to live pain-free in the long term.