Functional and radiological outcomes and complications of bernese periacetabular osteotomy through modified Stoppa approach.

Background: The Smith-Peterson approach and its modifications provide an extensive exposure and allow osteotomies through a single incision. However, the risk of complications increases when the quadrilateral surface, ischial and pubic osteotomy sites cannot be seen. This study aimed to evaluate the surgical characteristics, complications, and functional and radiological outcomes of patients with acetabular dysplasia who underwent Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) through modified Stoppa approach and plate-screw fixation.

Methods: The study included 31 patients (41 hips) who had undergone PAO using a modified Stoppa approach. The characteristics of patients and the surgical procedure were described. The lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA) and Tönnis roof angle were evaluated in the radiological outcome evaluation. The modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) was used to evaluate functional outcome. Furthermore, complications were described.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 20.4 ± 9.0 years. Of the 31 patients, 21 underwent unilateral Bernese PAO and 10 underwent bilateral Bernese PAO. The mean follow-up period was 25.1 ± 8.8 months. Postoperatively, the mean mHHS improved significantly (68.8 ± 9.4 vs. 88.8 ± 10.0, p < 0.001). Postoperatively, the mean LCEA and Tönnis roof angle improved significantly (17.7 ± 6.0 vs. 42.2 ± 4.8, p < 0.001 for LCEA and 18.3 ± 5.5 vs. 8.0 ± 2.2, p < 0.001 for Tönnis roof angle). There was no significant correlation between preoperative to postoperative improvement in LCEA or Tönnis roof angle and improvement and mHHS (p > 0.005). 5 complications were identified: 1 transient sciatic nerve palsy, 1 external iliac vein injury, 1 infection, and 2 screw irritations of acetabulum.

Conclusions: Performing Bernese PAO through a modified Stoppa approach with plate-screw fixation results in acceptable complication rates, immediate early weight-bearing opportunity, and improved functional and radiological outcomes in patients with acetabular dysplasia.