Comparison of the Frejka pillow and the von Rosen splint in treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip

Abstract

In southern Finland between 1966 through 1975, 920 newborns were treated with a Frejka pillow for dislocation of the hip. The treatment failed in 55 patients. The pillow was then rejected and replaced with the von Rosen splint. One hundred eighty patients were treated with the new method between 1978 and 1981. The treatment failed in one girl. At 3 years of age, one boy had slight features of avascular necrosis. Temporary skin irritation was found in 19% of patients. In two patients, the splint had to be replaced with a pillow because of skin problems. A treatment device which parents are allowed to take off between outpatient visits is not recommended.