In developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), which test indicates a dislocated hip?

The Barlow test is specifically designed to assess for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) by evaluating the stability of the hip joint. This test checks for dislocation by attempting to push the hip out of the socket. During the Barlow test, the examiner gently adducts the hip while applying a posterior force, which can reveal whether the hip can be dislocated. If a hip is dislocated, this maneuver will result in a palpable "clunk" as the femoral head moves out of the acetabulum.

In contrast, the Ortolani test is used to evaluate for a dislocated hip that can be reduced back into the socket. The Finkelstein test pertains to De Quervain's tenosynovitis and assesses wrist pain, while the patellar reflex test evaluates the knee jerk reaction and is unrelated to hip dislocation. Thus, the distinction between these tests highlights the Barlow test's role in identifying a dislocated hip in cases of DDH.