1. What is Ganz Osteotomy? Ganz Osteotomy, also known as Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO), is a joint-preserving surgical procedure used to treat hip dysplasia. Instead of replacing the hip with a prosthetic, the goal of this surgery is to preserve the patient’s own natural joint, reduce pain, improve function, and ensure the long-term health of the hip.
2. Is Ganz Osteotomy an Alternative to Hip Replacement? Yes. Periasetabular osteotomy is a joint-preserving surgery rather than a replacement. In eligible patients, this procedure can significantly delay or even eliminate the need for a total hip replacement for many years.
3. Is the Surgery Painful? While some discomfort is expected post-operatively, it can be effectively managed using modern pain control techniques and multimodal analgesic protocols.
4. Will I Carry the Screws for the Rest of My Life? It is not medically necessary to remove the screws as they are biocompatible. However, if requested by the patient, they can be removed through a minor procedure 4 to 12 months after the surgery once bone healing is complete.
5. How Long is the Recovery Period? Full recovery and remodeling can take up to one year. However, patients can usually return to light activities and physical therapy in a much shorter timeframe under medical supervision.
6. Is Everyone a Candidate for Periacetabular Osteotomy? The condition of the joint cartilage is the deciding factor. For patients with advanced cartilage damage (osteoarthritis), hip replacement might be a more suitable option. A personalized treatment plan is determined after a comprehensive clinical examination and diagnostic imaging.
7. What Are the Potential Risks and Complications? When performed on the right patient by an experienced surgeon, PAO is a highly successful and safe procedure. As with any major surgery, rare risks include excessive bleeding, infection, pulmonary issues, anesthesia-related complications, transient or permanent nerve injury, or non-union of the bone.
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