Preserve your hip when complex structural problems limit how you move, train, or perform. Dr. Stephanie Buza, our board-certified surgeon with fellowship training in hip preservation, treats conditions like hip dysplasia through specialized, individualized surgical plans.
Correct Complex Anatomy and Preserve Your Hip
Complex and open hip preservation includes specialized procedures used when structural hip problems require greater access than arthroscopy can provide. Rather than replacing your hip, these surgeries aim to correct the underlying anatomy while preserving your natural joint. Procedures such as periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) can reposition the hip socket, while surgical hip dislocation provides comprehensive access to the joint so complex bone, cartilage, or other structural abnormalities can be addressed.
Complex & Open Hip Preservation Treats:
- Hip dysplasia and inadequate socket coverage
- Complex structural abnormalities of the hip
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) requiring open correction
- Abnormalities of the femoral head or hip socket
- Hip instability related to underlying anatomy
- Cartilage damage associated with structural hip problems
- Labral damage occurring alongside complex hip abnormalities
- Hip conditions that cannot be adequately addressed through arthroscopy alone
Your Complex & Open Hip Preservation Procedure
Your treatment begins with determining how your hip anatomy contributes to pain, instability, or limited movement. Dr. Buza evaluates your symptoms, activity demands, and hip mechanics, using detailed imaging to understand the joint’s structure. If an open procedure is appropriate, she determines which approach can best correct the underlying problem while preserving your natural hip.
Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)
PAO is a joint-preserving operation commonly used for hip dysplasia, where the socket does not adequately cover the femoral head. During surgery, carefully planned cuts called osteotomies are made in the pelvic bone surrounding the acetabulum, or hip socket. The socket can then be repositioned to provide better coverage of the femoral head and secured with screws while the bone heals. This changes how forces travel through your hip while keeping the natural joint intact.
Surgical Hip Dislocation
Surgical hip dislocation provides extensive access to the hip when a complex problem cannot be reached arthroscopically. Through an open incision, the surgeon exposes and temporarily dislocates the femoral head from the socket while using techniques that protect its blood supply. This allows direct visualization of the femoral head, socket, and surrounding joint surfaces so structural abnormalities can be corrected before the hip is returned to its normal position.
Benefits of Complex & Open Hip Preservation:
- Preservation of your natural hip joint
- Correction of complex structural abnormalities
- Improved coverage and alignment of the hip joint with PAO
- Comprehensive access to the joint with surgical hip dislocation
- Treatment of problems that may not be adequately addressed through arthroscopy
- Improved distribution of forces across the hip joint
- Greater stability when abnormal anatomy contributes to instability
- Direct visualization of complex bone and joint abnormalities
Return to Activity After Open Hip Preservation
Recovery is more gradual than after hip arthroscopy and varies by procedure. After PAO, you’ll typically use crutches with restricted weight-bearing for about 6 to 8 weeks while the pelvic bone heals. Physical therapy begins with protected mobility and range-of-motion work. Running, jumping, and demanding dance or sports movements remain restricted during early healing.
As imaging confirms bone healing and your strength and control improve, you’ll gradually increase weight-bearing, conditioning, and functional exercises. Running may begin in about 4 to 6 months, with sport- or dance-specific training introduced soon afterward. Return to unrestricted high-impact activity commonly takes 6 to 12 months after PAO. Recovery after surgical hip dislocation varies according to what is treated, so Dr. Buza individualizes your progression.
How Do I Know if I Need an Open Hip Procedure?
Open hip preservation may be considered when a structural problem cannot be adequately corrected through hip arthroscopy. Dr. Buza evaluates your symptoms, hip anatomy, imaging, activity demands, and previous treatment before recommending surgery. The goal is to choose an approach that addresses the underlying problem while preserving your natural hip joint.
Let’s Get You Moving Again.
Schedule Your Consultation for Complex & Open Hip Preservation in NYC
Dr. Stephanie Buza is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with dedicated fellowship training in hip preservation. She provides individualized care for complex hip conditions, focusing on preserving your natural joints and helping you return to the sports, performances, and daily activities that matter to you. Schedule your consultation for complex and open hip preservation in New York City today.
