What to expect from osteotomy for hip dysplasia

In hip dysplasia, the socket may not cover the ball of the joint fully. A corrective osteotomy changes the position of part of the pelvis or upper thigh bone so the joint surfaces meet more securely. The surgeon uses imaging and planning measurements to choose the correction.

Fixation holds the bone while it heals. Early discomfort, swelling and difficulty changing position are common after major hip surgery. The operation may improve joint loading, but it cannot promise that existing cartilage wear or pain will disappear.

Arrange help for washing, meals and household tasks, and practise transfers with the walking aid recommended by your team. Follow instructions about wound care, medicines and hip positions. Keep scheduled reviews so healing and the position of the correction can be assessed.

Rehabilitation often starts with gentle movement and muscle activation. Your physiotherapist then works on controlled weight-bearing, hip strength and a more natural walking pattern. Do not add stretches, driving or impact exercise until your team confirms they are suitable.

Call your care team for fever, increasing redness or drainage, pain that escalates rather than settles, or new swelling in the calf or thigh. Seek emergency care for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, fainting, or a leg or foot that becomes cold, pale or numb.

Ask whether the correction will involve the pelvis or femur, what movements to avoid, how weight-bearing will progress, how fixation and bone healing will be checked, and which symptoms should prompt a same-day call.