Hip joint ultrasound in children (pre-luxation) is a clinical examination in combination with ultrasound to catch hip joint defects in infancy. It allows for early detection of congenital hip defects, such as hip dysplasia, and prompt treatment - generally conservative, but sometimes surgical.

Hip dysplasia (underdevelopment of the bones and other elements that make up the hip joint) is the most common congenital anomaly of the locomotor system. Detection at an early stage allows for complete cure of the defect. If dysplasia is not treated or detected too late, it causes a dislocation of the joint that prevents the child from walking properly. As a consequence, the child has a limp and its gait resembles that of a duck.

It is recommended that this is done between 6 and 8 weeks of age, followed by another if necessary after 3-6 months. Ultimately, the frequency of the pre-luxation ultrasound will be decided by the doctor. 

The examination is non-invasive, painless and requires no special preparation. It is a good idea to dress your child in such a way that undressing and dressing them is easy, quick and comfortable. The procedure in the office takes about 10-20 minutes, the parent can be present with the child the whole time. During the examination, the doctor lubricates the examined area with a special gel, which makes it possible to obtain good quality images. The gel is warmed up to minimise unpleasant sensations. The parents receive the result of the hip ultrasound immediately after it has been performed.

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USG of the hip joints in children at Medicover Hospital is performed by an experienced radiologist:


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Szpital Medicover
Aleja Rzeczypospolitej 5
02-972 Warszawa