Osteotomy of the Hip

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Osteotomy is the surgical reconstruction of the hip joint.

What is it?

Osteotomy of the hip refers to a reconstruction of the hip joint. Specifically, the femoral head and the acetabulum, the two bones interacting to form the joint, are manipulated to improve mobility and alleviate pain. The bones are cut and repositioned for a correct joint association. An osteotomy may be used to treat arthritis or hip dysplasia, which is a general classification of problematic bone shapes involved with the joint.

What should I do to prepare?

Before receiving surgery, the patient should consult with a physician or surgeon to determine if this surgery is the proper course of action. Medication plans and fasting routines may be necessary depending on the surgeon’s guidelines. Osteotomy is typically an inpatient procedure, so the patient should expect to remain at the hospital for post-surgical evaluation. Additionally, the patient should arrange travel accommodations in advance.

What happens during the process?

First, the patient receives general anesthesia to prepare for the procedure. When the effects of anesthesia are felt, the surgeon makes an incision to expose the hip joint. The surgeon or team of surgeons cut and reposition the bone as needed, depending on the needs of the patient. This process may require that the femoral head is removed from the acetabulum. This method may improve the patient’s style of walking to reduce pain. Furthermore, there are different classifications of osteotomies depending on the bone that needs to be corrected (i.e. shape deformity in the femur or shape deformity in the acetabulum)

What are the risks and potential complications?

Risks for hip osteotomies are relatively rare. Risks that accompany surgical procedures include but are not limited to improper anesthesia, infections, nerve damage, excessive bleeding, an inability of the wound to heal, and bone fractures. There is also the risk that the bones that form the joint do not heal appropriately.

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