Prospective Observational Cohort Study of Children with Hips Dislocated at Rest

This is a five-year project to compare treatment methods commonly used at the major medical centers of our affiliate sites. No new or investigative treatments are being introduced. The purpose of this study is to record and compare the results from a wide group of experienced pediatric orthopedic surgeons to determine whether our experiences are similar or different. This study has been under development for two years and is now beginning to collect data for comparison purposes. All patients are fully informed and voluntarily consent to have their case recorded in detail for comparison purposes. All human subject research policies have been followed rigorously, This project has been reviewed and approved by investigational oversight committees in five different countries.

Reliability of a New Radiographic Classification of Developmental Hip Dysplasia

The IHDI is proposing a new method of radiographic classification of hip dysplasia that may have better reliability for comparison studies of hip dysplasia. Current radiographic methods rely on the appearance of the ossification center of the femoral head or on ultrasound classifications before ossification has developed. Reports of treatment may include hips that are only mildly dysplastic or hips that are severely dislocated. A reliable method of separating mild from severe cases would help compare treatments for each category. The proposed method of the IHDI has been evaluated scientifically and has been submitted to medical congresses for presentation and comment.

3-D Computer Simulation Project with the University of Central Florida

This is a long-term collaborative project between the IHDI and the University of Central Florida’s College of Engineering to develop a 3-dimensional computer simulation model. This model will allow researchers to gain a better understanding of how various hip dysplasia treatments and positions affect the hips. Studies utilizing this model are listed below:

Analysis and Optimization of the Pavlik Harness Treatment of Neonates with Hip Dysplasia

The study aims to better the current understanding of how the Pavlik Harness works on baby’s hips when being treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip. The goal is to increase positive outcomes for the Pavlik Harness as a treatment method, improve hip dysplasia treatment without surgery and to better understand why the harness fails in some cases.

3-Dimensional orientation of the Iliopsoas tendon in healthy and dysplastic hips in the full range of hip abduction and flexion

This is a study conducted by Arnold Palmer Hospital and the University of Central Florida to determine whether the tendon of a large hip muscle, the iliopsoas, prevents closed reduction of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip. It is commonly assumed that this muscle is contracted and sometimes interferes with reduction of the hip into the socket. The 3-D computer simulation model will be used along with anatomy dissections and analysis of MRI and CT findings of infants in casts following closed reduction. The hypothesis is that this muscle is not an obstacle to reduction as commonly assumed. Demonstration of the effect or lack of effect of this muscle will help doctors focus their attention to the major obstacles that prevent closed reduction in dislocated hips so that improved methods of reduction may be developed. Basic information like this is needed in order to propose new solutions for treatment of hip dysplasia.

Please contact us if you would like more information about any of the above studies, or can make a donation for these and future research projects for hip dysplasia.