Aims. We aimed to examine the true incidence of DDH in our area, and to investigate both known and unknown risk factors for the condition. Methods. Data were prospectively recorded on all live births in the Exeter area from January 1998 to December 2008. The data included the baby's gestational age, sex, demographic details of parents, maternal age and parity, geographic and socioeconomic data, mode of presentation and delivery, and family history of DDH. Data were also collected prospectively on all treated cases of DDH (Graf 2c and above) for the same period. Using the population live birth data as controls, odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals were calculated. Results. The incidence of DDH in our area was 4.9 per 1000 live births. Although this might have been influenced by selective ultrasound screening, our records show that 74% of our cases had a Graf 3 or Graf 4 hip or presented late, and thus they would arguably have presented with or without screening. The remaining 26% had significant dysplasia (Graf 2c) with or without instability. Female sex (OR 7.3, 4.5-10.1), primiparity (OR 3.6, 2.3-5.6), positive family history (OR 12.6, 8.9-17.8) and breech presentation (OR 8.6, 6.1-12.1) were confirmed as risk factors for DDH. Caesarian section was protective in both cephalic (reduction in OR 0.5) and breech (reduction in OR 2.3) presentations. Postmaturity increased the chance of DDH (OR 2.7, 1.9-3.9). Certain postcodes also had significantly higher incidences (up to 11 per 1000 births), and these areas scored higher on an index of social deprivation. Birth weight, head circumference, and maternal blood group had no significant effects. Conclusions. Incidence in our area was higher than is usually quoted. Our data suggest that there are geographical variations in the condition's incidence. We identified novel risk factors that warrant further investigation

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore clinicians’ experience of a paediatric randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing surgical reduction with non-surgical casting for displaced distal radius fractures.

We have investigated the annual incidence of Perthes’ disease in Dumfries and Galloway (Southwest Scotland), in relation to the population density and socio-economic status. The incidence of Perthes’ disease in rural Scotland is comparable with that in urban areas (15.4 per 100 000). There was a direct association between the incidence of Perthes’ disease and deprivation scores, with the highest incidence in the most deprived areas. A higher incidence of Perthes’ disease was noted in areas with a lower population density compared with those with a higher density. We found no correlation between population density and deprivation scores for individual electoral wards within the region.