[Initial experience using routine hip sonography in newborn infants]

Abstract

933 newborn infants were subjected to routine hip screening by means of ultrasound in the first week of life, along with usual clinical investigations. The sonographic examinations were performed according to the technique and classification laid down by Graf. 68.2% of the investigated hips were of type I, 30.6% of type IIa. 20 hips (1.1%) were classified as IIg and 3 hips as type IIIa. The results of the clinical investigation during the first week were compared with the ultrasonographic findings. It is remarkable that some of the type IIg and type IIIa hips displayed no clinical signs. These hips should be controlled or treated at an early date.