DEVELOPMENTAL DYSPLASIA OF THE HIP IN PATIENTS WITH CONNECTIVE-TISSUE DISORDERS

There is a scarcity of literature on the management of hip dysplasia in patients with connective-tissue disorders, including Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Larsen syndrome, and osteogenesis imperfecta. These genetic conditions result in abnormal connective-tissue and ligamentous laxity, and they present a unique, more complex approach for the patient with developmental dysplasia of the hip. These patients may present at all ages and functional levels on a spectrum of developmental dysplasia of the hip ranging from mild to severe. Individualized treatment involves consideration of age, disease severity, comorbidities, and functional status. Treating orthopaedic surgeons may be the first to identify an undiagnosed connective-tissue disorder, and prompt genetic referral is crucial.