A quantitative anatomic characterization of the quadrilateral surface for periacetabular osteotomy

The periacetabular osteotomy described by Ganz et al is used widely, and includes an outward osteotomy from the quadrilateral surface. Because intraarticular extension of the osteotomy can complicate the Ganz osteotomy, it is important to image the margin of the hip. To prevent this complication, and to do this procedure more safely, 32 hemipelves from cadavers were used in the current study. Some landmarks were selected that can be clarified on the quadrilateral surface during the periacetabular osteotomy. The acetabulum was hollowed out using an acetabular reamer of the same size as each femoral head, and the margin of the penetrated hole through the acetabulum was determined using these landmarks. The posterior margin of the hip is located approximately 2 cm anterior to the sciatic notch. The anatomic guidepoint for the osteotomy of the ischium averaged 14 mm inferior to the distal margin of the hip. By clarifying the margin of the hip presumed on the quadrilateral surface in this way, the periacetabular osteotomy can be done more safely, without causing complications such as intraarticular chisel penetration.