Klisic Test

Learn how to use the Klisic Test to detect infant hip dysplasia and guide early interventions. Try it with our template today.

By Nate Lacson on Aug 2, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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What is the Klisic Test?

Developmental dysplasia refers to a spectrum of hip joint abnormal development in newborns where the femoral head does not properly fit into the hip socket. This condition can manifest as limited hip abduction, where the infant’s legs cannot spread out to the sides as expected. Sometimes, the misalignment arises due to inadequate femoral head coverage of the socket, leading to mild hip instability or even a fully dislocated hip if left untreated. In some cases, neuromuscular hip dysplasia occurs when underlying neurological issues affect muscle tone and joint formation. The proximal femur and femoral neck regions are crucial in forming a stable ball-and-socket structure, and when stability is compromised, the child may experience long-term mobility challenges.

Common risk factors include family history, breech presentation, and conditions affecting connective tissues. Over time, untreated developmental dysplasia may contribute to joint pain, walking difficulties, and early hip osteoarthritis, making early detection critical.

The Klisic Test is one clinical examination technique designed to evaluate for developmental dysplasia. Developed by Predrag Klisic, this test assists healthcare professionals in determining if the hip structures are properly aligned or if there is an underlying problem. By comparing anatomical landmarks, the examiner can discern whether the hip joint is stable or if subtle signs of instability exist. While the Klisic Test is considered useful, its reliability often depends on the examiner’s skill and experience. More practiced professionals can better interpret subtle findings, improving the test’s diagnostic accuracy.

In essence, the Klisic Test contributes to the early detection of developmental dysplasia, enabling timely interventions to ensure proper hip development and minimize long-term complications.

Klisic Test Template

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How to use our Klisic Test template

This template helps healthcare professionals methodically evaluate an infant’s hip stability and assess for any limitations in hip abduction. Here's how to integrate the template into your practice.

Step 1: Access the template

Open the Klisic Test template in the Carepatron app by clicking "Use template." In the Carepatron app's template editor, you can customize the template to your needs before filling it out and/or printing it. You can also get a ready-to-use fillable PDF by clicking "Download."

Step 2: Administer the test

Perform the Klisic Test as outlined in the clinical guidelines while referring to the procedure in the template. Double-check that the infant’s hip position is proper and that their body is comfortable. Refrain from rushing and maintain gentle handling to ensure patient comfort.

Step 3: Interpret the results

Once the examination is complete, record whether the test suggests a positive or negative finding. Use the information to determine if further imaging or specialist referrals are needed. Review any unusual findings with a trusted colleague if you need a second opinion.

Step 4: Discuss with the caregivers

Share the results in a clear, compassionate manner. If the test indicates potential issues, explain possible next steps, such as additional imaging or referral to a specialist. Encourage any questions to ensure that caregivers understand the findings and recommended follow-up actions.

Scoring and interpretation

Once healthcare professionals complete the Klisic Test, they can interpret the findings to guide their clinical decision-making. A negative result, where the line drawn between the anatomical landmarks passes above or through the infant’s umbilicus, usually suggests stable hip alignment. In such cases, additional tests may not be necessary, though it is always prudent to remain watchful for any emerging signs over time.

A positive result, where the line falls below the umbilicus, may indicate potential developmental dysplasia and underlying hip instability. When this occurs, further imaging, such as an ultrasound or referral to a specialist, can help confirm the diagnosis and determine an appropriate management plan. Prompt intervention following a positive Klisic Test can improve outcomes, reduce the risk of long-term joint problems, and ensure the infant receives the best possible care moving forward.

How healthcare professionals address developmental hip dysplasia

After confirming developmental dysplasia of the hip, healthcare professionals typically tailor interventions to the child’s specific needs, age, and degree of hip instability. They must also consider that conditions like congenital hip dislocation often require distinct approaches, and that neuromuscular hip dysplasia differ in underlying causes and progression, necessitating targeted treatment strategies.

Early bracing and positioning: A Pavlik harness or similar device can promote proper joint alignment in infancy, preventing worsening instability and guiding normal hip development.
Physical therapy and guided exercises: Structured exercise programs help strengthen supporting muscles, improve range of motion, and stabilize the hip joint for improved long-term outcomes.
Surgical interventions: In more severe cases, procedures like osteotomies or open reduction may correct anatomical misalignments, restore joint congruency, and ensure stable hip joint growth.
Follow-up imaging and ongoing assessment: Regular ultrasounds or X-rays allow practitioners to monitor healing, track improvements, and adjust treatment plans if the hip fails to stabilize.

Benefits of using our Klisic Test template

Our Klisic Test template serves as a practical resource for healthcare professionals, helping streamline the assessment process and ensure accurate, well-documented findings. Here's what you can gain by using this template:

Improved consistency: The template provides clear fields and guidelines, ensuring that each evaluation follows a standard protocol.
Enhanced clarity: With designated areas for patient information, test results, and next steps, the template makes it easier to track progress and inform caregivers about the infant’s hip health.
Time-saving and professional: By offering a ready-to-use, customizable format, the template allows healthcare professionals to work more efficiently and focus on providing high-quality care.

Apart from these benefits, you gain much more by signing up for a free Carepatron account, such as AI speech-to-text transcription, automated patient reminders, and secure HIPAA-compliant storage.

Commonly asked questions

The Klisic Test is a clinical examination technique used to assess developmental hip dysplasia in infants, focusing on the alignment of hip structures.

A positive Galeazzi sign, different from the Klisic Test, indicates uneven knee heights with the knees and hip flexed, suggesting a potential hip problem.

The Ortolani and Barlow tests, unlike the Klisic Test, involve maneuvering the infant’s hips to detect dislocation or instability; the Ortolani reduces a dislocated hip, while the Barlow dislocates an unstable but located hip.