300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 My Child Has: Ultrasound - Hip Programs that perform this test Adolescent and Young Adult Hip Program   What is a hip ultrasound? Hip ultrasound is used to take pictures of the hips of babies to look for a dislocated or underdeveloped hip. It can be performed in babies from the newborn period to about 6 - 8 months of age. When should I get a hip ultrasound? Indications for a hip ultrasound include: abnormality found through physical examination of a baby's hip, a family history of hip dysplasia, and breech presentation, among others. How should the patient prepare for the procedure? There is no preparation required. What will happen during the procedure? The baby will lie on an examining table on his or her back. The technologist or doctor will place some warm gel (a lotion) on a transducer (similar to a microphone) and place it on the baby's hip and take some pictures. Both hips will be examined. The test usually takes 30 minutes or less to perform. How does this technique work? What does the radiologist see? Ultrasound is used in this setting to look at a baby's hip socket to see if it is well-formed and situated properly. How will I learn the results? Either from the radiologist or your physician. What if I have other questions? Ask the radiologist interpreting the examination, or call Ultrasound at 617-355-7840 to speak with the secretary, a technologist, or a physician. The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.