[Tönnis and Kalchschmidt triple pelvic osteotomy]

The Tönnis and Kalchschmidt triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) has been performed at the Klinikum Dortmund for more than 30 years. In more than 5000 cases the TPO has proven its potential to deal with even severe dysplastic hips. TPO can be easily combined with other hip procedures as intertrochanteric osteotomies and even impingement treatment can easily be done. As an elaborate technique TPO respects the growth plates and can therefore also be used for treating Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.

In most cases only conventional X‑rays are needed for proving the indication. Further imaging like MRI or CT-scans are only needed in certain cases. In addition EOS® is becoming an increasingly useful tool in planning and performing the surgery. For adequate movement of the acetabulum, three clearly defined osteotomies are needed. Current osteosynthesis methods provide an enhanced stability due to a novel technique of screw fixation. This is in line with the general trends towards short hospitalization and early mobilization.

A successful treatment requires not only experience in performing the surgical technique, but furthermore an experienced team, including care, physical examination and also pain management. The surgeon should be aware that he is performing highly elective surgery and complications or a poor outcome can significantly reduce the quality of life of the mainly young patients.