Open Periacetabular Osteotomy
What is a Periacetabular Osteotomy?
Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) is a surgical procedure which involves reorienting the acetabulum, or
socket portion, of the hip joint within the pelvis. The goal is to improve the structural properties of the
hip joint by increasing the surface area of cartilage in the weight bearing portion of the hip.
Who gets a PAO?
Ideal candidates for a PAO:
- Are adolescents and young adults who are skeletally mature (have completed growth)
- Have symptomatic hip dysplasia
- Have failed to respond to conservative measures
- Have healthy intact cartilage
- Have a healthy weight (BMI <30)
- Have a relatively round ball and a relatively round socket
What can I expect with a peri-acetabular osteotomy?
- A complete pre-operative workup that will focus on preparing your for your surgery
- 2-3 hour surgery time
- 2-3 days in the hospital
- A comprehensive pain management protocol and reduced dependence on pain medication day by
day - 4-6 weeks of limited “Toe Touch” weight bearing with crutches
- Gradual progression of weight-bearing based on follow-up x-rays
- Return to most normal activities by 3 months
- Return to athletics by 6-12 months
It is with a grateful heart that we announce Dr. Anthony Unger’s retirement, effective December 31, 2024. As a founding member of Washington Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Dr. Unger has had the privilege of forming lasting relationships with many patients and their families. It has been a true honor for him to provide care across multiple generations, and he deeply values the trust placed in him by so many.