What is a periacetabular osteotomy?

Peri-acetabular osteotomy, or PAO, is an invasive surgery performed on patients suffering from hip dysplasia, according to the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. During peri-acetabular osteotomy surgery, the pelvis bone is cut around the hip so the hip can be placed in a better position to handle the stress of use.

Once the hip is repositioned, it is held in place with screws that may or may not be removed once the bone heals. This type of surgery requires several months of recovery time where the patient cannot put full weight on the affected leg, according to the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Crutches, walkers and wheelchairs must be used until the hip heals in its new position.