Paediatric hip ultrasound
Paediatric hip ultrasound
Paediatric hip ultrasound is a diagnostic test carried out in the first months of a newborn’s life to identify any abnormality in the development of the hip joints that could lead to dysplasia.
This scan is recommended within the first 6-8 weeks of every newborn’s life, as it is a quick, painless and non-invasive test that is very effective at detecting joint problems early.
How is the scan carried out?
A hip ultrasound is carried out like any other ultrasound: the doctor, with the help of the parents, gently moves an ultrasound probe over the baby’s hips. The images are visible in real time on a monitor and analysed by the doctor during the scan.
The whole procedure takes only a few minutes.
What is hip dysplasia?
It is a condition affecting the hip joints that can be mild or more severe, even affecting mobility. An ultrasound within the first three months after birth is the best way to identify or rule it out early. Prompt treatment allows effective care, often with excellent results.
Dysplasia can have genetic causes, but it can also be influenced by the position of the baby in the womb or by the baby’s posture after birth.
The main risk factors include breech birth, twins, being female and excessively loose ligaments.
In Italy, dysplasia affects about 1% of newborns.
Send us your request
*Waiting times refer to working days and to the first available specialist.
CalatafimiMed is in Palermo and is open from Monday to Saturday. For any further information you can contact the centre here.
