Expert consensus validation of an instrument to improve the timely detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip in children.

Background: Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is the most common human congenital malformation. When diagnosed and treated before five months of age, it has a high cure rate. If not, surgical management is required with high economic costs, a great impact on morbidity and sequelae that can generate permanent disability. Objective: To design and validate an instrument to timely detect DDH. Material and methods: An instrument developed from a literature review on the timely diagnosis of DDC, using the PRISMA methodology. To validate it, an expert panel was formed comprising specialists from different healthcare institutions. Results: All participants in the expert panel agreed that DDH is a public health problem. They consider that there are many patients with late diagnosis and sequelae due to a lack of timely treatment. There was consensus on the feasibility of implementing the proposal. The expressed need to update the current regulations regarding diagnostic means was identified. Conclusions: It is necessary to promote epidemiology, risk factors, correct physical examination, ideal imaging methods according to the patient's age, and timely referral pathways for patients. Add our DDH instrument to the section to the healthy child card. This should include risk factors: pelvic presentation, female sex, and family history of DDH. As well as the marking of a normal vs abnormal physical examination.