Successful Management of a Case of Congenital Dislocation of Knee With Ipsilateral Developmental Dysplasia of Hip

Abstract

Introduction

Congenital dislocation of the knee (CDK) is a rare condition and includes a characteristic hyperextension deformity at the knee with varying degrees of anterior and lateral subluxation. Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common disorder and presents frequently to a pediatrician. DDH with CDK is common, but hip pathology usually remains unnoticed because of more obvious deformity at the knee. Through this case, we aim to highlight the association of CDK with DDH and discuss its management.

Case Presentation

A preterm, 31-week baby girl, appropriate for gestational age, delivered to a primigravida mother with early antenatal oligohydramnios. At birth, the baby had an externally rotated left lower limb and the knee in hyperextension. A clinical diagnosis of CDK with ipsilateral DDH was confirmed further with a radiological evaluation of the left hip and knee. Staged correction of deformities was done starting with the knee, followed by the hip joint. By the 12th week of life, the knee and hip dislocations were corrected satisfactorily, which remained stable till the last follow-up (6 months).

Conclusion

CDK can present with an ipsilateral DDH, and this possibility needs attention. Newborns having congenital knee dislocation should undergo hip screening for instability by clinical methods. Ultrasound screening of the hip can be done if clinical examination is inconclusive. Such cases can be managed successfully by staged knee and hip disorder correction.