THE CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS OF GRAF TYPE IIA HIP DYSPLASIA

IntroductionThere is little evidence surrounding the clinical implications of a diagnosis of IIa hip dysplasia with no consensus as to its efficacy as a predictor pathological dysplasia or treatment. Therefore, we evaluated the importance of categorising 2a hip dysplasia in to 2a- and 2a+ to better understand the clinical outcomes of each.MethodsA 9-year retrospective cohort study of patients with a diagnosis of type IIa hip dysplasia between 2011 – 2020 (n=341) in our centre. Ultrasound scans were graded using Graf's classification, assessment of management and DDH progression was completed through prospective data collection by the authors.ResultsThe prevalence of IIa hip dysplasia within our population was 6.7/1000 live births. There was significantly higher incidence of treatment in the IIa- (31.4%, n=17/54) group when compared to the 2a+ group (10%, n=28/287), (pConclusionThis study has demonstrated the significant clinical impact of a IIa- diagnosis on progression to pathological dysplasia and therefore higher rates of treatment in IIa- hips. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the importance of detection of IIa hips through a national screening program, to allow for timely intervention to prevent missing the acetabular maturation window. Therefore, it is our recommendation that all patients with additional anatomical abnormalities and those with a diagnosis of type IIa- hip dysplasia be considered for immediate treatment or urgent follow up following their diagnosis to prevent late conservative intervention.