Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)

Overview

This surgery treats hip dysplasia, a problem caused by a shallow hip socket. It adjusts the socket so the ball of your femur won't slip out.

Preparation

To begin, you're put to sleep. An incision is made to reach the joint.

Repair

The surgeon makes cuts around the hip socket. The socket is freed from the surrounding bone. Then, it's rotated to better align it with the ball of the femur. Finally, it's secured with implants. Over time, new bone will grow, fusing the socket in this new position.

End of procedure

When the surgery is done, the incision is closed. You're watched in a recovery room as you wake up. Follow your doctor's instructions for a safe recovery.