Hello! I realize you posted your message last August, but I'm new to the site and just came across it. I just finished posting the message below in response to someone else's question and thought I'd paste the same message in response to you. I hope this helps...even though it's 8 months later
I had the periacetabular osteotomy procedure done on my right hip in 2005. I stayed in the hospital for 2 weeks, and started rehab the day after surgery. I used a walker first, followed by crutches, and then a cane. The doctor prescribed some pretty strong painkillers, but I was able to stop using them at about the 3rd week after surgery.
While I was told that I would be off from work for 12 weeks, I went back after 3 weeks and my doctor signed off on it. He actually preferred that I went back because it was critical that I exercised and moved as much as possible. I had a desk job so it wasn't difficult for my employer to make accomodations for light duty.
I know you didn't ask a question specifically pertaining to this, but I feel it's important to share it. The periacetabular osteotomy is a procedure I wish I did not consent to having done. Had I known what I know now, I would have pushed for a hip replacement instead. I was told by my surgeon and my 2nd opinion doc that I was too young, and that the periacetabular osteotomy was my only option at that time; but, who's to say what age is "too young"...some people have long lives while others aren't as long. Had I pursued a hip replacement, I likely wouldn't have needed to spend the past few years desperately searching for doctors who could help me fix what was done to me - the outcome of hip replacements are
very positive. While several orthopedic surgeons (who all perform the PAO surgery) that I've since seen think that my results are excellent ("the bone looks great"), not one can tell me why I'm still in pain on a daily basis. As a side note, prior to surgery, I only had a click in my hip, a labral tear, and sporadic nerve pain. After surgery, I was left with nerve, bone, and muscle pain, and my right hip now double-clicks everytime I take a step. Plus, I continue to require treatment regularly - chiropractic care every other week and physical therapy once a week. I'm sure everyone has done the best that they could to help me; but in the end, it's my quality of life that has been affected.
So, to avoid having any regrets, please spend as much time as possible researching the surgeries you are planning to have. Access as many resources to answer questions and eliminate any doubts. By the time you are signing papers at the hospital admitting office, you should feel comfortable with the procedure, the doctor, and the possible results. If you do not, give yourself more time. Regardless of what anyone tells you, do not feel rushed into it.
