What does the Ortolani test specifically assess?

The Ortolani test specifically assesses hip joint dislocation, particularly in infants. It is designed to detect developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), a condition where the hip joint does not properly develop in babies and young children. During the test, the clinician gently abducts the baby's thighs while applying pressure to the greater trochanter of the femur. A positive Ortolani test is indicated by a distinct "clunk" sound, which signifies the reduction of a dislocated hip back into the acetabulum (the socket of the hip joint).

This test is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention, as untreated hip dislocation can lead to prolonged complications, including joint damage and impaired mobility. Other assessments, such as the Barlow test, are often performed in conjunction to evaluate the stability of the hip. The other options do not relate to the Ortolani test, as they focus on different physical assessments of other body parts or conditions.