Evidence brief
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: Screening and Early Treatment
Graf classification based on ultrasound morphology
Type I: normal
Type II: immature or mild dysplasia
Type III: subluxation
Type IV: dislocation
Enables early diagnosis before ossification
Graf ultrasound classification revolutionized DDH screening, allowing diagnosis and treatment before radiographic changes appear.
Know Graf classification and angles (alpha >60° = normal, beta <55° = normal). Indications for screening: breech, family history, clinical findings. Treatment: Pavlik harness for Types II-IV under 6 months. Know when Pavlik fails and when to proceed to closed/open reduction.
Graf R. Classification of hip joint dysplasia by means of sonography. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 1984;102(4):248-255.
Level IV
Case series or case reports