With hip dysplasia, the acetabulum is incorrectly oriented, meaning the femoral head is insufficiently covered. With a PAO, Prof. Dr. Corten detaches the socket and places it in the correct position, thus avoiding a future arthroplasty.
Key facts
- Duration of procedure
- Around 90 minutes
- Anaesthesia
- Spinal or general
- Hospital stay
- 3 to 5 nights
- Crutches
- 6 weeks, partial weight-bearing
- Follow-up X-ray
- At 6 weeks
- Return to sport
- 6 to 9 months, depending on the type of sport
- Goal
- Reorient the hip socket, postpone or avoid arthroplasty
- Maximum age
- Generally up to about 40 years, provided cartilage is healthy
What is a PAO?
A periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a surgical procedure for people with hip dysplasia.
Its aim is the anatomical correction of hip dysplasia to restore joint stability, reduce pain, and improve function.
Pre-operative: patient with left hip dysplasia.
PAO post-operative: repositioned pelvic bone, fixed with screws.
How is a PAO performed?
- Before surgery, the anaesthetist places an epidural catheter (infusion with pain pump) in the back. After the operation, you can operate the pain pump yourself using a push button. This epidural pain pump remains in place for one to two days.
- Prof. Dr. Corten makes an incision at the front. He performs the technique in such a way that the incision falls within the groin crease. The operation is also completely muscle-sparing. After making the incision, the specialist works towards the capsule and bone without damaging the muscles. He exposes the joint capsule and, without opening it, the doctor proceeds to the ischium (part of the pelvis), just below the hip socket.
- Various bone segments of the pelvis are detached.
- The hip socket is now completely free and can be positioned correctly. The surgeon uses X-rays to check if the new position is optimal. He then fixes the hip socket with 2 to 3 screws. After fixation, it is rechecked if the hip socket correction has been performed correctly. Then the wound is closed.
Prof. Dr. Corten's muscle-sparing technique offers significant advantages: less blood loss, a smaller scar due to the groin crease incision, and shorter hospitalisation, allowing patients to resume activities quickly.
Our HipCloud application guides and monitors the pre- and post-operative trajectory.
What to expect after the operation?
- For the first 6 weeks, you may partially bear weight and use 2 crutches. This is necessary for the bone to heal.
- At the 6-week follow-up appointment, an X-ray will be taken to check if the bone has healed sufficiently. If so, you may start rehabilitation. You can gradually resume daily activities.
- After 6 to 9 months: resumption of sports activities.
Our approach
At the European Hip Center, we combine advanced surgical techniques with personalised care. HipCloud, our digital platform, plays an important role:
- Before the operation: preparation with education and guidance.
- After the operation: monitoring your recovery and support with rehabilitation.
This approach ensures a faster and safer recovery, tailored to your personal situation.
Frequently asked questions
A question about this procedure?
Schedule a consultation. We will discuss together whether this treatment is the right choice for your situation.