What is PAO surgery?

A Ganz periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a surgical procedure that preserves a shallow hip joint instead of replacing it with an artificial one. The procedure is considered the gold standard in surgical correction of acetabular dysplasia.

In PAO hip surgery, the surgeon reorients the hip socket (acetabulum) to provide more coverage over the ball (femoral head). This relieves the excessive pressure around the rim of the hip socket.

Goal of PAO surgery

The goal of PAO surgery is to eliminate or decrease pain, restore function and maximize the functional life of the hip.

After surgery and sufficient recovery, you can return to an active lifestyle. This surgery delays — and in many cases eliminates — the need for an artificial hip replacement later in life.