De Silva D, Tennekoon DC, Rajindrajith S, Fernando UJ, Rajapaksha A, Aroojis A, Mulpuri K, Schaeffer E, Wijayasinghe SR. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev.
Abstract
Introduction:
Sri Lanka has no formal care pathway for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), which can mean later diagnosis and more invasive treatment. Before building one, the team surveyed relevant specialties about their current screening and diagnosis practices.
Methods:
Four panel members from three Sri Lankan organizations helped adapt three specialty-specific surveys, based on surveys used in India. The surveys went by email to radiologists, paediatricians and neonatologists, and orthopaedic surgeons. They had 24, 37 and 27 respondents respectively.
Results:
The surveys showed how screening currently works. They also showed ways to improve screening and diagnosis. These include checking how reliable ultrasound reports are and giving guidance on when and how to refer. Many paediatricians were unaware of hip-healthy swaddling, and only about half the surgeons and paediatricians knew the AAOS guidelines.
Conclusions:
The findings will shape a DDH care pathway suited to local needs. The pathway has to fit available resources and raise awareness of best practice among clinicians. The small number of respondents and the urban skew limit the results.
