Single Versus 3-incision Triple Pelvic Osteotomy: Comparison of Clinical and Radiologic Results

Abstract

Background: Triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) is indicated when the anatomic and functional realignment of the hip joint is needed. Although the traditional approach for TPO involves a separate incision for ischial cut, there has been a trend for single-incision TPO in recent years. This study aims to compare the clinical and radiologic results of 2 different approaches. Methods: Forty-two hips of 39 patients treated using TPO with a minimum of 24 months of follow-up were included in our cohort. Demographics, perioperative, and radiologic parameters were evaluated. Harris Hip Score and International Hip Outcome Tool were used for clinical evaluation. Results: A single anterolateral incision approach was used in 18 hips (17 patients), whereas a 3-incision approach was used in 24 hips (22 patients). The mean follow-up was 4.7 years in the 3-incision group and 3.8 years in the single-incision group (P=0.43), with mean surgery age at 8.7 years (range, 5.4 to 12) for single-incision and 9.7 years (range, 7.7 to 11.7) for 3e-incision (P=0.22). There were no significant differences observed between the 2 groups concerning radiographic measurements, complications, and functional scores. The mean surgical time was 118.6 minutes in the single-incision group and 97.9 minutes in 3-incision group (P=0.036). Mean intraoperative blood loss was 181.7 ml in the single-incision group and 243.4 ml in 3-incision group (P=0.028). Three-incision group demonstrated significantly higher intraoperative blood loss, leading to lower hemoglobin values (P=0.042). Conclusion: The single-incision TPO demonstrated similar outcomes compared with the traditional 3-incision approach in terms of radiologic correction and functional improvement. The single-incision technique exhibited advantages such as reduced intraoperative blood loss and potential benefit of decreased pain due to fewer scars. However, it required a longer surgical time compared with the 3-incision approach. Surgeons should consider patient-specific factors and their expertise when selecting the most appropriate approach for each case. Level of Evidence: Level III—retrospective comparative series.