Modified Pemberton osteotomy for developmental dysplasia of the hip in children: a mid- to long-term follow-up study - Report - MDSpire

Modified Pemberton osteotomy for developmental dysplasia of the hip in children: a mid- to long-term follow-up study

  • By

  • Ting Lei

  • Kun Liu

  • Jin Tang

  • Jiang-yan Wu

  • Qian Tan

  • Wei-hua Ye

  • Guang-hui Zhu

  • Yu-qing Li

  • June 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Evaluation of Modified Pemberton Osteotomy for Pediatric DDH

Overview

The modified Pemberton osteotomy (MPO) demonstrates favorable mid- to long-term outcomes in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), with significant improvements in radiographic parameters and low incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN). This study evaluated 55 patients over a mean follow-up of 7.21 years.

Background

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a prevalent pediatric condition that can lead to significant long-term complications if not treated appropriately. Surgical interventions, particularly in older children, are crucial for restoring hip function and preventing further joint issues. The modified Pemberton osteotomy aims to enhance surgical safety and efficacy by minimizing the risk of iatrogenic injury to the triradiate cartilage.

Data Highlights

ParameterPreoperative MeanFinal Follow-up Mean
Acetabular Index (AI)39.66 ± 5.46°12.71 ± 8.37°

Key Findings

  • The mean acetabular index improved significantly from 39.66 ± 5.46° preoperatively to 12.71 ± 8.37° at final follow-up.
  • 88.7% of hips achieved excellent-good functional outcomes according to McKay criteria.
  • 93.0% of hips showed excellent-good joint congruence based on Severin classification.
  • Avascular necrosis occurred in 11.2% of hips, which is considered a low incidence.
  • The mean follow-up duration for the study was 7.21 ± 1.64 years.

Clinical Implications

The modified Pemberton osteotomy provides a viable surgical option for children with DDH, demonstrating significant improvements in hip function and radiographic outcomes. The low incidence of AVN suggests that MPO may enhance surgical safety compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

MPO offers favorable mid- to long-term outcomes for children with DDH, effectively improving hip joint anatomy while minimizing risks associated with conventional techniques.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Longitudinal Analysis of Hip Geometry and Lateralization in Pediatric Patients with DDH, NDH, and LCPD After Reconstructive Surgery: Findings from a Cohort of 73 Individuals Over an Average of 4.9 Years
  2. Short to mid-term functional outcomes and early blood loss of THA in patients with developmental hip dysplasia after childhood open surgery versus primary osteoarthritis
  3. Does gradual weaning improve outcomes after successful Pavlik harness treatment in developmental hip dysplasia? A retrospective comparative study
  4. The Impact of Age on the Efficacy of Periacetabular Osteotomy for Symptomatic Hip Dysplasia in Middle-Aged Individuals
  5. Mid- and long-term outcome of Salter’s, Pemberton’s and Dega’s osteotomy for treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  6. AAOS Clinical Practice Guideline on Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
  7. Radiological results of the Bernese periacetabular osteotomy performed before closure of the triradiate cartilage
  8. Mid- and long-term outcome of Salter’s, Pemberton’s and Dega’s osteotomy for treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Sophie R Merckaert, Pierre-Yves Zambelli, Shannon N Edd, Starnoni Daniele, Jolles Brigitte, 2021

Original Source(s)

Modified Pemberton osteotomy for developmental dysplasia of the hip in children: a mid- to long-term follow-up study

  • by Ting Lei, Kun Liu, Jin Tang, Jiang-yan Wu, Qian Tan, Wei-hua Ye, Guang-hui Zhu, Yu-qing Li

  • June 9, 2026

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