PAO Surgery: Is It Only for Hip Dysplasia?

Q: PAO Surgery: Is It Only for Hip Dysplasia?

Hello： PAO stands for "PeriAcetabular Osteotomy." PAO is indicated for acetabular dysplasia, where there is inadequate coverage of the femoral head, most commonly seen in congenital hip dysplasia. <br>The surgical procedure, as the name suggests, involves cutting bone around the

PAO, or Periacetabular Osteotomy, is a type of hip joint surgery designed to treat hip dysplasia. This procedure involves cutting the bone around the acetabulum (the socket of the hip joint) and repositioning it to improve the alignment and stability of the

Dear medical professionals, is PAO (periacetabular osteotomy) only applicable for congenital hip dysplasia? What kind of surgery is it? What is the surgical process like? What is the prognosis? I have been trying to find information on this topic but have been unable to.
I hope to clarify my doubts with your professional medical knowledge.
Thank you!

Xiao Ci, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/13

Dr. Chu Baijun reply Orthopedics

Hello: PAO stands for "PeriAcetabular Osteotomy." PAO is indicated for acetabular dysplasia, where there is inadequate coverage of the femoral head, most commonly seen in congenital hip dysplasia.
The surgical procedure, as the name suggests, involves cutting bone around the acetabulum to allow for its movement and rotation, thereby increasing the coverage of the femoral head.
The prognosis varies depending on the specific condition.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chou, Orthopedic Surgeon.

Reply Date: 2005/09/13

More Info

Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) is a surgical procedure primarily designed to treat hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the hip joint is not formed properly, leading to inadequate coverage of the femoral head by the acetabulum. While PAO is most commonly associated with congenital hip dysplasia, it is not exclusively limited to this condition. It can also be beneficial for patients with other forms of hip joint instability or deformities that result in insufficient coverage of the femoral head, including certain acquired conditions or post-traumatic changes.

What is PAO Surgery?
PAO involves cutting the bone around the acetabulum (the socket of the hip joint) and repositioning it to improve the alignment and coverage of the femoral head. This procedure aims to restore normal biomechanics of the hip joint, reduce pain, and prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. The surgery is typically performed in younger patients who are experiencing hip pain and functional limitations due to hip dysplasia or similar conditions.

Surgical Process
The surgical process begins with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the hip area and carefully exposes the acetabulum. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon performs osteotomies (bone cuts) around the acetabulum to allow for its repositioning. The acetabulum is then rotated and secured in its new position, often using screws or plates to stabilize the bone during the healing process. The entire procedure usually takes several hours, and the patient may require a hospital stay of a few days post-surgery.

Postoperative Care and Prognosis
After PAO surgery, patients typically undergo a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. Initially, patients may need to use crutches or a walker to assist with mobility while the bone heals. The recovery process can vary, but many patients can expect to return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months, depending on their adherence to rehabilitation protocols and individual healing rates.

The prognosis following PAO surgery is generally favorable, especially when performed on younger patients with good bone quality and no significant joint degeneration. Studies have shown that PAO can significantly improve hip function and reduce pain, with many patients experiencing long-term benefits. However, the success of the surgery can be influenced by various factors, including the severity of the dysplasia, the presence of arthritis, and the patient's commitment to rehabilitation.

Conclusion
In summary, while PAO is primarily indicated for congenital hip dysplasia, it can also be applied to other conditions that compromise hip joint stability. The surgery involves repositioning the acetabulum to enhance coverage of the femoral head, which can alleviate pain and improve function. With appropriate postoperative care and rehabilitation, many patients can expect a positive outcome, allowing them to return to their daily activities with improved hip function. If you have further questions or concerns about PAO or its suitability for specific conditions, it is advisable to consult with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip disorders.

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