Name of the Procedure:

Osteotomy, femoral neck (separate procedure)

Summary

An osteotomy of the femoral neck is a surgical procedure where a surgeon cuts and realigns the femoral neck—the area between the hip ball and the femur shaft. This helps to correct deformities, improve joint function, or alleviate pain.

Purpose

This procedure addresses conditions such as hip dysplasia, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), or specific types of fractures. Its main goals are to restore normal hip mechanics, reduce pain, and prevent degenerative joint disease.

Indications

• Hip pain due to structural deformities.
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint.
• Non-healing fractures of the femoral neck.
• Displacement or malalignment of the femoral neck causing gait problems.

Preparation

• Fasting for 8-12 hours before surgery.
• Stopping certain medications, as instructed by the surgeon.
• Preoperative imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to assess the hip joint and plan the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient receives general or regional anesthesia.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the hip area.
3. Osteotomy: Precise cuts are made in the femoral neck bone.
4. Realignment: The femoral neck is realigned to the desired position.
5. Fixation: The bone is fixed using screws, plates, or wires to ensure proper healing.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile bandage is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

The surgery is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Blood loss
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Delay in bone healing or non-union
• Postoperative pain or stiffness

Benefits

• Improved hip function and alignment
• Pain relief
• Increased mobility and range of motion
• Prevention of further joint degeneration

Recovery

• Hospital stay for a few days post-surgery.
• Pain management with medications.
• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
• Limited weight-bearing on the operated leg for several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring bone healing.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical options like physical therapy, medications, or orthotic devices.
• Hip arthroscopy for minor adjustments.
• Total hip replacement for advanced joint degeneration.
• Pros and cons vary; surgery offers more definitive correction but comes with higher risks and longer recovery.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and should feel no pain. After surgery, there may be pain and discomfort, managed by medications. The patient should expect a gradual return to normal activities with the help of physical therapy and other supportive care measures.