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Due to poor penetration of bone, ultrasonic techniques have not been popular in orthropedic procedures. Since they are non-invasive and are not associated with a radiation hazard, their application in the diagnosis of congenital hip-joint dislocations merits investigation. Methods are presented in Part I which should enable the experienced investigator to make the diagnosis and avoid flash interpretations. In Part II, the practical results of these techniques over an 18 month period are presented and discussed. The small size of the object under examination and the, in general, poor resolving power of ultrasonoscopes constitute the major difficulties encountered when using ultrasonic diagnostic devices. The fact that these methods are harmless to the patient, economical, simple to perform, and noninvasive, make them attractive diagnostic tools for screening infant hip-joints congenital luxations.

Our report relates to our experimental investigations and clinical experience gained with the sonography of infant hips. On the basis of over 3,000 sonograms we were able to carry out a standardization of dysplasia forms from the sonographic point of view. It is possible to recognize disturbed hip maturation already after birth and to continuously control the further development. New sonographic findings and details permit to take up a more differentiated therapy as applied so far.

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the commonest 'congenital' disease of the locomotor system throughout the world. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Bone & Joint Decade (2000-2010) 10%-15% of patients who are under the age of 50 when they require a hip replacement do so because of infant hip dysplasia.The background; technique and common mistakes; results; debate and politics; and the challenges of infant hip sonography are reviewed.