Audrey
Audrey was born in February 2017, and had no signs that she had any hip issues – but she didn’t begin crawling, or sitting up unaided, even by 7 months old.
In October 2017, her pediatrician recommended physio to treat her right side torticollis. During her PT, the therapist recommended x-rays and a follow-up with the pediatrician to rule out any abnormalities with hip function.
Audrey’s x-rays showed that both hips were dislocated and she was referred to an orthopedic surgeon, where they confirmed her Hip Dysplasia diagnosis.
Due to her age and the condition of her hips, surgery would need to be done quickly. Within 2 weeks she underwent an attempted a closed reduction, which failed – necessitating an open reduction surgery.
After her surgery, Audrey spent close to 4 months in Spica casts, and despite being weighed down by the large cast, she began to crawl in March 2018.
Fast forward to October 2019, Audrey’s family received bad news that while her left hip joint was stable, her right hip had deteriorated significantly and she would require a right hip pelvic osteotomy.
She had her second major surgery in December 2019. A week post-op, she learned to drag herself around and by the end of her cast treatment, had learned to stand and waddle around with a bit of help.
In late 2020 her parents noticed some clicking in her hips, a small change in gait, and periodic pain. Unfortunately, both of her hips had begun to deteriorate, and further screening showed more prominent issues on the right side. Immediate surgery was not required but she will likely need to have a bilateral femoral osteotomy, followed by a Spica cast within the next year.
Her doctor explained that the biology of her hip joints (the soft tissue) isn’t allowing for normal development of the joints. Mechanically, surgical intervention helps that process along, but it doesn’t change her biology.
She continues to be a VERY active 4-year-old, who loves to run, adores swimming and dancing and can keep up with all of her friends. She never complains and is so resilient. She is funny and affectionate, and loves reading, animals and insects and being outside - especially the beach!
