Newborn Hips Ultrasound Screening
Safe, early screening for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hips (DDH).
A gentle, radiation-free ultrasound scan to check your baby's hip joint development and rule out dysplasia. Best performed between 4 and 6 weeks of age.
Book your baby's hip ultrasound screening below.
Early Newborn Hip Dysplasia Screening
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a condition where the ball-and-socket joint of a baby's hip does not form properly. If detected early in the first few weeks of life, DDH can be treated easily and successfully. Because a baby's hip joints are mostly cartilage, ultrasound is the only effective way to see the joint structures clearly without radiation.
At LifeScan Malta, our consultant radiologists perform newborn hip scans using the standard Graf technique, providing immediate results and complete peace of mind on the same day.
Graf Hip Assessment
Angle Measurements
We measure the depth and angles of the hip socket:
- Measuring the Alpha and Beta angles of the acetabular roof
- Categorizing the hip type (Graf Type I is mature, higher types indicate dysplasia)
- Checking the stability and alignment of the femoral head in the socket
Who Should Book?
Risk Factors for DDH
Hip screening is recommended for all babies, but is vital if:
- The baby was born in the breech position (bottom or feet first)
- There is a family history of hip dysplasia or early hip replacement
- The pediatrician noticed a click, asymmetry, or limited movement during checks
Simple Preparation Tips
- Best Timing: The scan is most accurate when performed between 4 and 6 weeks of age. We can scan from birth up to 5-6 months.
- Feeding: Feed your baby just before the scan so they are content and sleepy.
- Clothing: Dress your baby in clothes that are easy to remove from the waist down. Bring a spare nappy and a favorite pacifier or toy.
Transparent, Dynamic Pricing
At LifeScan Malta, we believe in transparent pricing without surprises.
Because our booking fees are dynamic and subject to adjustments, the current up-to-date scan price is displayed directly in the booking widget below.
Prices are kept current in our digital calendar system so you never have to worry about outdated price lists on our pages.
Book Your Newborn Hips Ultrasound Screening
Select an appointment time below. Your appointment will be handled by our consultant specialists.
Why Choose LifeScan?
Experience board-certified expertise, same-day reporting, and state-of-the-art imaging.
Standardized Graf Method
We use the globally recognized Graf classification system to calculate exact hip angles.
Specialist Paediatric Radiologist
Scans are performed by consultant radiologists experienced in infant diagnostics.
Immediate Diagnostic Results
Preliminary results are explained during the visit, with the formal report emailed same-day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Newborn Hips Ultrasound Screening.
What is DDH (Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip)?
DDH is a condition where the hip socket is too shallow, meaning the ball of the thigh bone is not held firmly in place and can dislocate easily.
Does the hip ultrasound hurt?
No. The scan is completely painless. The baby lies on their side on a padded examination couch with a soft disposable sheet while the probe is gently held against the hip.
What happens if hip dysplasia is found?
If DDH is detected, treatment is very successful using a temporary soft harness (Pavlik harness). The radiologist will immediately coordinate a referral to a pediatric orthopaedic specialist.