Open Surgical Hip Dislocation
What is a Surgical Hip Dislocation?
Surgical Hip Dislocation is a surgical procedure which involves open exposure of the hip joint while maintaining the natural blood supply to the femoral head (the “ball” of the ball and socket joint). The goal is to access the head and neck of the femur for correction of significant structural problems or treatment of focal cartilage defects.
Who gets a Surgial Hip Dislocation?
Ideal candidates for a PAO:
- Are adolescents and young adults who are skeletally mature (have completed growth)
- Have symptomatic structural problems of the head and neck of the femur that are not amenable to arthoscopic correction
- Have failed to respond to conservative measures
- Do not have arthritis
- Have a healthy weight (BMI <30)
What can I expect with a Surgical Hip Dislocation?
- A complete pre-operative workup that will focus on preparing your for your surgery
- 2-3 hour surgery time
- 2 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 6-9 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.