Anatomical factors in the stability of the hip joint in the newborn

The findings in a child with bilateral congenital dislocation of the hips who died shortly after birth are described. The only significant abnormality present was redundancy of the capsular ligaments and elongation of the ligament of the femoral head. The relationship between the orientation of the femoral neck and of the acetabulum was within normal limits. The significance of these findings in relation to etiology and management are discussed.