Diagnostic accuracy of static graf technique of ultrasound evaluation of infant hips for developmental dysplasia.

Introduction: Ultrasound examination of infant hips is a widely used and accepted tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of developmental dysplasia of the hip. Its use and timing is still a focus of debate and its diagnostic accuracy has not been fully investigated.

Method: We have compared the ultrasound findings by the Graf technique with radiographic appearance (acetabular index) at 6 months of age.

Result: The negative predictive value of Ultrasound for DDH was 98% and was unaffected by the timing of the examination. The specificity and accuracy of the examination increased with age and was highest at 3 months of age.

Conclusion: Ultrasound examination of the infant hip by the static Graf technique is a safe and effective screening tool for the evaluation of DDH.