Ortolani test

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

The Ortolani test or Ortolani maneuver is a physical examination for developmental dysplasia of the hip. It is performed by gently abducting the infant’s leg using the examiner’s thumb while placing anterior pressure on the greater trochanter using the examiner’s index and forefinger. A positive sign is a distinctive ‘clunk’ which can be heard and felt as the femoral head relocates anteriorly into the acetabulum. Specifically, this tests for posterior dislocation of the hip. This is part of the standard infant exam performed until 8–12 weeks of age. It is performed with the Barlow maneuver and inspection of the hip joint and legs.

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