The Pavlik harness is used to treat which condition and in which age group?

• A. Developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants under about 6 months; maintain hip flexion and abduction.
• B. Developmental dysplasia of the hip in toddlers over 2 years; hip extension.
• C. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in adolescents.
• D. Congenital clubfoot in newborns.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the Pavlik harness is a nonoperative device used to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip in very young infants, typically under six months. It works by holding the hip in flexion and abduction, guiding the femoral head into the acetabulum as the joint develops. This dynamic positioning allows continued movement while promoting proper hip alignment, making it most effective in this early age window. It isn’t suitable for older children, where the hip anatomy has changed and reduction often requires different approaches. It also isn’t used for conditions like slipped capital femoral epiphysis in adolescents or congenital clubfoot in newborns, which are managed with other treatments.