ABSTRACT
In the early part of the 20th century, proximal femoral osteotomy and realignment found popularity in adult patients for the treatment of hip osteoarthritis. In more recent times, this procedure has been reserved for young patients with symptomatic hip disease in whom total joint arthroplasty has offered an inadequate solution. Problems with rapid wear and loosening leading to early failure of joint replacements are well documented in this patient population. Intertrochanteric osteotomy found some utility in providing temporary relief of pain in this challenging group of patients. However, the current use of newer biomaterials with improved wear properties seems to offer an arthroplasty solution with longer-term benefits. These modern joint arthroplasty techniques have narrowed the indications of this once common procedure.
