2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

3D Modeling of Residual Developmental Dysplasia of the Infant Hip Using CT Imaging

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Erin Mannen

Abstract

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a condition characterized by improper formation of the hip joint, which can lead to long-term complications if not accurately assessed and treated. While diagnostic approaches vary by age, there is limited research focused on quantifying residual deformities in infants using advanced imaging techniques. This study aims to identify and evaluate key radiographic measurements used to calculate femoral head sphericity and overall joint morphology through three-dimensional (3D) modeling.

Computed tomography (CT) scans from two DDH cases were analyzed using MicroDicom and reconstructed into 3D models using Amira software. Measurements including alpha angle, epiphyseal angle, neck-shaft angle, head-neck offset, and head sphericity were obtained and compared against established thresholds from existing literature. A targeted literature review was conducted, narrowing 2,776 initial sources to 13 relevant references, to determine reliable and reproducible methods for assessing hip morphology.

Preliminary findings demonstrate the feasibility of integrating CT-based 3D modeling with established radiographic parameters to better characterize residual dysplasia. However, limitations include a small sample size and reliance on predominantly adult-based reference data. Despite these constraints, this approach shows potential for improving the precision of surgical planning and advancing understanding of DDH progression in pediatric populations.

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