Multi directional intertrochanteric osteotomy for primary and secondary osteoarthritis--results after 15 to 29 years

Between 1974 and 1987, 276 intertrochanteric osteotomies were performed in 217 patients. In 48 hips the osteotomy was done for idiopathic osteoarthritis. In 166 hips the osteoarthritis was secondary to acetabular dysplasia, in 23 to trauma, in 14 to slipped capital femoral epiphysis, in five to Legg-Calvé-Perthes' disease and in 20 to avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Good results were achieved in young females with mild osteoarthritis secondary to acetabular dysplasia, and in patients with posttraumatic osteoarthritis. All other indications showed a poorer long-term survival. Our study shows that acetabular dysplasia and posttraumatic arthritis remain valid indications for intertrochanteric osteotomy.