Developmental Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a congenital or acquired deformation or misalignment of the hip joint. It can range from barely detectable to severely malformed/dislocated. In dysplasia the acetabulum (socket) is too shallow, resulting in uneven pressure on the hip joint and articular cartilage and labrum. Often labral tears are present and become a recurring problem unless the underlying abnormality is corrected. Hip dysplasia leads to osteoarthritis at an early age.

A Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) is the main surgical treatment for hip dysplasia in the adolescent or adult patient. In this procedure, the surgeon makes a series of cuts to rotate the socket into proper position (to provide more coverage of the femoral head) and inserts screws to hold the acetabulum (hip socket) in its new position. PAO may serve as a lifelong treatment if performed before hip arthritis progresses.

Hip Dysplasia in the Adolescent and Young Adult

International Hip Dysplasia Institute