logo

Periacetabular Osteotomy

Orthopedic Surgery & Joint Replacement located in Walnut Creek, Sacramento and San Francisco, CA

Periacetabular osteotomy is an orthopedic procedure used to correct hip dysplasia caused by an abnormality in the acetabulum –– the portion of your pelvis that forms the socket for your hip joint. At the Joint Preservation Institute, with offices in Sacramento, Walnut Creek, and the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood in San Francisco, California, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Amir Jamali, MD, specializes in periacetabular osteotomy. The procedure is quick, effective, and provides lasting pain relief. Call the nearest office today to schedule a periacetabular osteotomy consultation, or book your appointment online. 

Who should consider a periacetabular osteotomy?

Consider undergoing a periacetabular osteotomy if you’ve been diagnosed with hip dysplasia and it causes chronic pain, stiffness, and mobility issues, particularly if you’ve tried conservative treatments, like physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and activity changes, but your symptoms continue or worsen.

What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a common musculoskeletal condition that occurs when the acetabulum –– the part of your pelvis where your hip socket is –– doesn’t develop fully, affecting the alignment of the femoral head (the top of your leg bone).

If the ball of your hip joint doesn’t adequately fit inside the socket, it causes extra wear and tear on your cartilage and surrounding tissues. Over time, this leads to degenerative changes, affecting mobility and quality of life. Anyone can experience hip dysplasia, but it’s more common in women than men.

What does a periacetabular osteotomy involve?

A periacetabular osteotomy is a complex orthopedic surgery that requires you to stay in the hospital for two or three days. The procedure takes place with you under general anesthesia, so you’re asleep the entire time.

On the day of your operation, Dr. Jamali makes several incisions on the side of your hip. He then uses special surgical tools to cut your bone and reposition your acetabulum inside your pelvis. Dr. Jamli applies small surgical screws to the area, ensuring your acetabulum stays in position, and closes the incision.

New bone forms while your body heals, securing your acetabulum in the optimal position, which realigns your hip joint, relieving pain and restoring mobility. 

What is recovery like after a periacetabular osteotomy?

After a periacetabular osteotomy, you stay in the hospital for several days. It’s normal to experience pain, mild bruising, and swelling during this time. Take your medications as prescribed, get plenty of rest, and follow Dr. Jamali’s instructions.

Before you leave the hospital, Dr. Jamali provides weight-bearing guidelines and enrolls you in physical therapy. Physical therapy includes stretches and strengthening exercises to speed healing and get you back on your feet.

Be patient during your recovery. It typically takes 6-12 months for your body to heal. Don’t rush back into sports or other physical activities, as they can interfere with your healing and increase the risk of complications.

Call the nearest Joint Preservation Institute office today to see if you’re a candidate for a periacetabular osteotomy, or book your appointment online.