The use of splintage in the management of paralytic dislocation of the hip in spina bifida cystica

1. A specially designed splint is described with which it is possible to maintain the reduction of a paralytic dislocation in a child with spina bifida cystica. The results of its use in a series of thirteen cases are recorded. 2. It is suggested that all such children presenting in the first year of life, in whom the power of the flexor and adductor muscle groups is preserved, should be treated initially in this way until the prognosis for the individual can be accurately assessed. 3. The theoretical implications of the findings are discussed.