Popliteal Angle as an Indicator for Successful Closed Reduction of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

Abstract

Purpose. To evaluate the use of the popliteal angle as an indicator for successful closed reduction of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in children with delayed presentation. Methods. 29 patients aged 6 to 18 months underwent successful closed reduction for unilateral DDH under general anaesthesia. Using a graduated goniometer, the popliteal angle was measured with the hip abducted within the safe zone (to avoid redislocation and injury to the femoral capital epiphysis) before and after reduction and after 6 weeks of spica casting. Results. The mean popliteal angles before and after reduction and after 6 weeks of spica casting were 5.1°, 37.5°, and 17.9°, respectively (p20°. This may be used to indicate the diagnosis and safe closed reduction.