OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the contribution of sonography of the hip in the management of nontraumatic limping in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Prospective study including children consulting for nontraumatic limping (n=93). These children had a clinical examination, a biological and imaging workup (pelvis x-rays (n=88), initial sonograph of the hip (n=93), and follow-up sonograph of the hip (n=29)).

RESULTS:

Ninety-three children (69 boys, 24 girls) aged from 10 months to 13 years (median, 4 years) were included and divided into two groups: The sensitivity and specificity of sonography in establishing a serious diagnosis was 57% and 59%, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

The advantage of systematic hip sonography is challenged in this study because of low sensitivity and specificity. Its main advantage seems to be in its negative results, which prompt other investigations.