For a newborn, the correct management of hip dislocation should include:

For a newborn, the correct management of hip dislocation should include:

• A. Use of flexion-abduction device such as Pavlik harness to stabilize hip
• B. Follow and observe closely for 3-4 weeks then refer to ortho
• C. Surgical reduction
• D. Traction for 6 weeks

Answer: (A)

In a newborn with hip dislocation, the best first step is nonoperative reduction using a flexion-abduction device. A Pavlik harness holds the hips in gentle flexion and abduction, allowing the femoral head to slip into the acetabulum as the joint develops. This position encourages stable reduction and proper acetabular remodeling while the infant remains active, reducing the need for invasive procedures and lowering the risk of complications such as avascular necrosis when used correctly. The harness is typically worn for several weeks with close follow-up and imaging to confirm reduction; skin care and proper fit are essential. Waiting to observe, progressing to surgical reduction, or using traction are not appropriate initial approaches in a newborn, as they don’t address the underlying need for early, guided reduction.

In a newborn with hip dislocation, the best first step is nonoperative reduction using a flexion-abduction device. A Pavlik harness holds the hips in gentle flexion and abduction, allowing the femoral head to slip into the acetabulum as the joint develops. This position encourages stable reduction and proper acetabular remodeling while the infant remains active, reducing the need for invasive procedures and lowering the risk of complications such as avascular necrosis when used correctly. The harness is typically worn for several weeks with close follow-up and imaging to confirm reduction; skin care and proper fit are essential. Waiting to observe, progressing to surgical reduction, or using traction are not appropriate initial approaches in a newborn, as they don’t address the underlying need for early, guided reduction.