MSK imaging: developmental dysplasia of the hip: practice question

A Radiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Radiology · MSK imaging: developmental dysplasia of the hip

Sample item

Which imaging modality is preferred to screen a 6-week-old infant with risk factors for developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Ultrasound of the hips (Graf method)

Before the femoral head ossifies (about 4 to 6 months), ultrasound shows the cartilaginous head and acetabulum, and the Graf method measures alpha and beta angles. Radiographs are used after 4 to 6 months. Early treatment is with a Pavlik harness.

Option by option

  • A. CT of the pelvis

    CT delivers radiation and is not used for screening.

  • B. Bone scan

    A bone scan is not used for DDH.

  • C. Plain radiograph at birth

    A radiograph cannot show the unossified femoral head.

  • D. Ultrasound of the hips (Graf method) (correct)

    Correct. Ultrasound shows cartilaginous structures and uses no radiation.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Radiology question

What is the answer to this Radiology question?

The best answer is D, Ultrasound of the hips (Graf method). Before the femoral head ossifies (about 4 to 6 months), ultrasound shows the cartilaginous head and acetabulum, and the Graf method measures alpha and beta angles.

Why is "CT of the pelvis" not the answer?

CT delivers radiation and is not used for screening.

Why is "Bone scan" not the answer?

A bone scan is not used for DDH.

Why is "Plain radiograph at birth" not the answer?

A radiograph cannot show the unossified femoral head.

What concept does this question test?

It tests MSK imaging: developmental dysplasia of the hip in Radiology. Radiographs are used after 4 to 6 months. Early treatment is with a Pavlik harness.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study MSK imaging: developmental dysplasia of the hip?

Learn signs with the image, and the disease they point to. Then use the flashcards and the other Radiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.