TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF FETAL HIP SONOGRAPHY

Recent advances in ultrasound technology now permit direct access to f oetal structures with visualisation of foetal hip development. Since e arly diagnosis and treatment of congenital hip dislocation significant ly influence outcome of the disease, ultrasound screening of newborn i nfants proved to be the most effective method. In our study assessment of the foetal hip has been carried out to provide basic knowledge on foetal hip development from 14.-40. weeks of gestation. Technique of f oetal hip ultrasound is presented. Diagnosis should include qualitativ e and quantitative descriptions of foetal hip structures. Alpha and Be ta angles according to Graf's classification are frequently measurable from the 2 1 st week of gestation, but tend to be more reliable towar ds the end of pregnancy.