Sometimes it is necessary to release some slightly tight tendons in the groin through a small incision and occasionally it is necessary for an operation to put the hip safely in the socket. After such an operation it is usual to put the child in a plaster of Paris or fibre glass plaster which extends from the waist down to the ankles or feet. Occasionally another operation is necessary as they grow older if the socket fails to grow properly. In many instances the causes of hip dislocation are not known. It is more common in babies who are born by breech and it is more common if the baby has been a little squashed inside the womb.
Special care is taken in the examination of babies when there is a special risk factor.
In many centres in the UK children who have risk factors are examined not only clinically but by ultrasound. The ultrasound improves the chance of diagnosing the hip problem and is very helpful in checking to see that hips grow better after treatment. Ultrasound is most useful, however, in the first few weeks of life. Thereafter x-rays are more reliable in seeing how a baby's hip is growing. In some families there may be an hereditary element but this is unusual.