Conventional versus computer-tomography based navigation assisted eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy in less experienced surgeons.

Introduction: The use of navigation systems may improve the preoperative planning and outcomes of less-experienced surgeons for periacetabular osteotomies. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of conventional and navigation-guided eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy (ERAO).

Methods: The inclusion criteria were patients that underwent ERAO performed by less experienced surgeons (performing ERAO less than 25 cases) for hip dysplasia between January 2016 and December 2022. The study group was divided into the conventional (38 patients, 42 hips) and navigation groups (32 patients, 34 hips). Assessment tools included the operative time, blood loss, preoperative and final follow-up Harris Hip Scores (HHS), complications, and acetabular imaging parameters.

Results: The study included a total of 70 patients (6 men and 64 women, average age of 35.1 years, 76 hip joints). There were no significant differences in the operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and preoperative and final HHS scores between the two groups. Complications were observed in 10 (24%) and 3 (9%) hip joints in the conventional and navigation groups, respectively. Conversion to total hip arthroplasty was performed in two hip joints (5.4%) in the conventional group and none in the navigation group. The postoperative lateral center edge angle and acetabular head index were significantly greater in the navigation group than in the conventional group.

Discussion: This study demonstrated that even less experienced surgeons can reduce complications and achieve favorable acetabular coverage with ERAO using navigation systems.