DDH – Graf’s Method

Hip dysplasia is a condition of the hip joint in which the top of the femur does not fit properly in the socket. This is often because the hip socket is shallow, and the head of the femur is not held tightly enough in place. This makes the hip susceptible to dislocation and increases the risk of dislocation, where the bone slips out of place. It is often referred to as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) or congenital hip dislocation and is usually a problem that is present from birth or early childhood development.

DDH is most common in first born females, and certain types of birth, such as breech births. There is also a genetic factor, so that this condition often runs in families.
Provided that the condition is diagnosed early and treated, most children with hip dysplasia will develop normally and just bracing is required.

Following hip bracing, the child’s hip will have a full range of movement, and this will normally eliminate the need for surgery. However, if undiagnosed and untreated, DDH can cause problems in later life.

Hip sonography in the “Graf technique” is an important tool to detect early DDH cases and dysplastic hips in infants.
Doctors check babies’ hips more than once throughout their development – immediately after birth during the newborn physical examination and again after six to eight weeks. Gentle manipulation of the baby’s hip joints can reveal symptoms such as:

• Discomfort or pain
• Loose hips
• One leg longer than the other

The Povatex range of products were designed thanks to the invaluable cooperation with Prof. Reinhard Graf for the prevention and treatment of DDH using the world-renowned Graf method for ultrasound classification of developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Graf Classification

The descriptions used in the Graf method assume the standard projection is an ultrasound image of the hip set up as a vertical right hip AP view. The Graf’s Cradle (Rapid-Eco + Eco-Support) is designed to position the baby correctly in place for a scan, holding the newborn still without needing the assistance of a third person. This enables the doctor to perform a medical examination quickly and precisely.

During the scan, the doctor can observe and analyse the data on a monitor, as the EcoSupport allows precise movement, avoiding errors in diagnosis.

RapidEco is washable, made from materials of advanced technology and allows an easier and quicker way of working. The system was designed, Certified and authorized by Prof. Dr. Rheinard Graf.

GRAF’S METHOD – PREVENTION PROGRAMME – DEVELOPMENTAL DYSPLASIA AND LUXATION OF THE HIP

The Povatex products are manufactured to the highest quality standards and are both non invasive and comfortable to wear so are not traumatic for the infants, while being easy to use for the parents.