Q65.02 Congenital dislocation of left hip, unilateral

Name of the Condition

• Congenital Dislocation of Left Hip, Unilateral

Summary

Congenital dislocation of the left hip, unilateral, is a condition present at birth where the femoral head is not properly seated in the acetabulum of the left hip. This results in joint instability and can affect hip development if untreated.

Causes

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may involve genetic factors, intrauterine positioning, or abnormal fetal development. A family history of hip dysplasia can increase risk.

Risk Factors

• Female gender, breech birth position, firstborn status, and oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) are associated with higher incidence.

Symptoms

• Asymmetrical skin folds around the thigh, limited hip abduction, leg length discrepancy, and a clicking sensation during movement.

Diagnosis

Physical examination using maneuvers like Barlow or Ortolani, followed by imaging (ultrasound in infants, X-ray in older children) to confirm displacement.

Treatment Options

• Pavlik harness for infants to stabilize the hip. Surgical intervention may be required for older children or if conservative treatment fails.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes. Regular follow-up is needed to monitor hip development and address any residual issues.

Complications

• Untreated cases may lead to chronic hip instability, gait abnormalities, or early-onset arthritis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Routine newborn screening helps detect the condition early. Avoiding restrictive swaddling of the hips may reduce risk in infants.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If asymmetry in skin folds, limited hip movement, or a limp is observed in an infant or child.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Use Q65.02 for congenital dislocation of the left hip, unilateral. Ensure documentation specifies laterality (left) and confirms unilateral involvement. Differentiate from bilateral or unspecified hip dislocations.