Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)

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Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)

Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat hip dysplasia by repositioning the acetabulum (hip socket) to better support and cover the femoral head. This improved alignment helps stabilize the hip, reduce pain, and prevent early arthritis.

What Is Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)?

PAO is a reconstructive surgery focused on correcting hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip socket is too shallow.
The term “periacetabular” means around the acetabulum, and “osteotomy” means cutting the bone.

During a PAO:

  • The hip socket is precisely cut away from the pelvis
  • The socket is rotated or repositioned
  • The new position provides improved coverage of the femoral head
  • The socket is secured in place to restore joint stability

This results in a more normal hip alignment and reduces stress on the labrum and cartilage.

Surgical Treatment

PAO is performed to relieve pain, improve function, and delay or prevent the onset of hip arthritis caused by untreated dysplasia.

This surgery may be recommended when:

  • The hip socket is too shallow
  • The labrum is being overloaded and becomes torn
  • Pain and instability interfere with daily activity
  • Non-surgical treatment does not provide relief

The goals of surgery include:

  • Restoring proper hip biomechanics
  • Reducing painful pressure on the rim of the socket
  • Protecting the cartilage and labrum
  • Improving long-term hip function

PAO is often performed along with hip arthroscopy when labral tears or cartilage injuries are present.

Benton A. Emblom, MD

Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon who specializes in hip preservation, including the surgical treatment of hip dysplasia. As a member of The Hip Center at Andrews Sports Medicine, he provides expert evaluation and advanced procedures such as periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) and hip arthroscopy.

Dr. Emblom serves as a head team orthopaedic physician for Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Hoover High School, and several local high schools. His extensive experience in hip preservation enables him to help patients restore stability, reduce pain, and protect long-term joint health.

If you believe you may have hip dysplasia or another hip condition and would like to request an appointment with Dr. Emblom, call (205) 939-3699 and ask to speak with his appointment scheduler.

To request an appointment online, CLICK HERE or contact Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center at (205) 939-3699.

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