Getting around after hip surgery can be difficult for young patients—especially when traditional car seats don’t accommodate bulky hip casts or specialized braces. At Maynard Children’s Hospital, a recent donation is making that journey easier and safer.
Collins Arnett, a young patient recovering from hip dysplasia, is one of several children benefiting from a specialized car seat funded by the Children’s Miracle Network.
“Collins has hip dysplasia, which means the hip joint is underdeveloped,” explained Dr. Michael Firtha, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at ECU Health. “It’s more common in children born breech. In many cases, treatment involves braces or casts that don’t fit in standard car seats.”
These challenges led ECU Health’s pediatric team to look for better options—resulting in the introduction of the Diono Radian 3R Convertible Car Seat. The seats feature lower sides that provide more space for children wearing braces or spica casts, allowing for a more comfortable and secure fit.
“A lot of traditional car seats are too high on the sides,” said Christie Odom, a Pediatric Physical Therapist at ECU Health. “With the Diono seat’s lower profile, kids can sit back comfortably, and it’s easier to position their legs safely.”
Thanks to a $4,500 grant from the Children’s Miracle Network, the hospital received 20 of these specialized seats this year. The donation is a significant resource for families in Eastern North Carolina who may not be able to afford this type of car seat on their own.
Before a seat is issued, each child is assessed to ensure the right fit. The hospital also provides patient and parent education to support proper use.
“If a child doesn’t fit safely in their current car seat and the family can’t access a better alternative, we step in to help,” said Odom. “We have these seats available here and can provide one directly to the family.”
Beyond convenience, the specialized seats improve safety and comfort for post-surgical transport—especially during frequent follow-up visits. The initiative underscores ECU Health’s commitment to enhancing care and support for young orthopedic patients.
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