DDH & SCFE Treatment in Delhi

What is DDH (Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip)?

Developmental dysplasia of the hip, or DDH, is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop normally. DDH may affect one or both hips and can begin before or after birth during a child's growth years. In this condition, the femoral head (ball of the hip joint) is either partially or completely out of the hip socket, resulting in instability and potential long-term complications if left untreated.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for DDH to ensure normal hip development and prevent long-term disability. With timely intervention, most children achieve full hip function and lead healthy, active lives.

What is SCFE (Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis)?

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis, or SCFE, is a condition that occurs between the ages of 10 and 16 when rapid growth and hormonal changes put too much stress on the growth plate of the hip. In SCFE, the femoral head slips backward and downward off the femoral neck through the growth plate, disrupting normal hip joint mechanics.

SCFE is one of the most common hip disorders in adolescents and requires prompt surgical attention to prevent further slippage and long-term joint damage.

Causes

Causes of DDH

• Family history of DDH increases the risk of developing the condition.
• Uterine molding abnormalities, where the baby's position in the womb affects hip development.
• Breech birth position, which places unusual stress on the hip joints of the newborn.
• Ligamentous laxity, which may run in families, makes the hip joint more susceptible to displacement.

Causes of SCFE

• Hormonal changes during adolescence weaken the growth plate, making it vulnerable to slippage.
• Increased mechanical stress on the hip from rapid bone growth during puberty.
• Underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or growth hormone deficiency that affect bone strength.
• Obesity, which places excessive load on the hip growth plate.

Diagnosis

For DDH, doctors perform a thorough physical examination, including the Ortolani and Barlow maneuvers, to assess hip stability in newborns. Imaging tests such as ultrasound (in infants) and X-rays (in older children) confirm the diagnosis.

For SCFE, physicians assess pain with extremes of motion and limited range of motion in the hip. An X-ray of the hip is typically sufficient to confirm the diagnosis, as it clearly shows the slipped position of the femoral head on the growth plate.

Treatment Options

Treatment for DDH

• Bracing: In young infants, a Pavlik harness or similar brace is used to hold the hip in the correct position while the joint develops normally.
• Casting: If bracing is not effective or the child is older, a hip spica cast may be applied to hold the hip in position for several months.
• Surgery: In cases where bracing and casting fail, or the child presents at an older age, surgical intervention is required to properly reposition the femoral head within the socket and stabilize the hip joint.

Treatment for SCFE

• Conservative Management: Initial treatment may involve resting, casting, or physical therapy to prevent further slippage while the condition is assessed.
• In Situ Fixation: The primary surgical treatment for SCFE involves placing a screw through the growth plate to stabilize the femoral head and prevent further slippage. This procedure is performed without attempting to reposition the slipped head.
• Additional Surgery: In severe cases, more complex surgical procedures may be required to correct the deformity and restore normal hip function.

Cost of DDH & SCFE Treatment in Delhi

The cost of DDH and SCFE treatment in Delhi starts from 1,40,000 INR and may range up to 5,00,000 INR, depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. Factors influencing the cost include:

• The severity of the condition and the complexity of the treatment required.
• The type of facility, with private hospitals charging higher fees than government institutions.
• The experience of the surgeon performing the procedure.
• The duration of the hospital stay and post-operative rehabilitation requirements.

Recovery

Recovery after DDH and SCFE treatment depends on the type of intervention used. Proper rehabilitation enables many children to achieve independent walking and normal hip function with appropriate follow-up care.

• After bracing or casting, the child will need regular follow-up appointments to monitor the development of the hip joint.
• After surgical treatment, physiotherapy is an important part of the recovery process, helping to restore hip movement and strengthen the muscles around the joint.
• Weight-bearing restrictions will be advised after surgery. The surgeon will guide when it is safe to put weight on the affected leg.
• Regular follow-up with imaging tests is essential to ensure that the hip is developing or healing correctly.

Why Choose Dr. Ashwani Maichand for DDH & SCFE Treatment?

Dr. Ashwani Maichand is a highly experienced orthopaedic surgeon with extensive expertise in paediatric hip conditions, including DDH and SCFE. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Maichand provides comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each child's specific needs.

His patient-centric approach ensures early and accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment selection, and close follow-up to monitor recovery and prevent long-term complications. Dr. Maichand's commitment to improving the quality of life of young patients makes him a trusted choice for DDH and SCFE treatment in Delhi.

Frequently Asked Questions