The success of closed reduction in the treatment of complex developmental dislocation of the hip.

The purpose of our study was to determine the efficacy of closed reduction in the treatment of complex developmental dislocation of the hip. We identified two factors, the cone of stability and the limbus type, through the use of arthrography and gentle examination under anesthesia, which are useful guidelines in the management of complex developmental dislocation of the hip. We feel as a result of this study we can select those cases of complex developmental dislocation of the hip that are amenable to closed reduction and separate them from those other cases for which we recommend open reduction.