It's a common query without a definitive answer, as each individual's situation varies. Opting between preserving the natural hip or total hip replacement hinges mainly on age, dysplasia severity, and expected post-surgery activity level. Your doctor is the ideal source for personalized guidance. If your doctor specializes in total hips and lacks PAO surgery experience, seeking a second opinion from a qualified PAO surgeon is advisable. Similarly, if your doctor primarily treats children and young adolescents but rarely performs total hip replacements, consulting a total hip surgeon might be valuable.
PAO yields best outcomes for those under 35 with good ball-and-socket alignment. Total hip replacements excel for those over 45, willing to curtail activities to extend artificial hip durability. Orthopedic surgeons often aim to preserve the natural hip if the adequate joint surface remains and the person is under 40-45. Displaced hips with thin joint surfaces often lead to total hip replacement, particularly after 45. The in-between years depend on existing joint damage. PAO surgery offers success, restoring full activities and delaying replacement over a decade for 85%, and potentially two decades for some. Though successful, total hip replacements pose challenges in younger individuals who tend to disregard post-surgery restrictions after feeling better. Increased wear and replacements stem from longer lifespans and heightened activity levels. Subsequent replacements involve more bone removal, complicating the procedure and elevating infection risks. Total hip replacement complications rise with each subsequent surgery. However, age becomes secondary when joint surfaces are worn out, necessitating a total hip replacement. Remember, your doctor can assess your hip's condition and recommend the optimal choice between PAO surgery and total hip replacement.