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Developmental dysplasia of the hip — DRCOG MCQ

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ModeratePostnatalDevelopmental dysplasia of the hipDRCOG

A 5-week-old girl has limited hip abduction and a palpable clunk on examination. She was breech at 36 weeks and born by elective caesarean section. She is otherwise well. When should this patient be referred?

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Correct answer: D — Refer urgently for specialist hip assessment

A hip clunk or limited abduction suggests developmental dysplasia and needs urgent specialist assessment. Breech presentation remains a risk factor even after caesarean birth. Waiting until walking age delays effective treatment. Double nappies are not definitive management and should not replace referral.

Reference: NHS NIPE screening programme; NICE NG194