SAN ANTONIO — CHRISTUS Children’s is recognizing International Hip Dysplasia Awareness Month this June by highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment while celebrating a major milestone in pediatric orthopedic care.
Hospital officials announced that CHRISTUS Children’s has successfully performed more than 200 periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) procedures, a complex surgery used to treat symptomatic hip dysplasia in adolescents and young adults.
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip socket does not fully cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone, leading to instability in the joint. If left untreated, the condition can result in chronic pain, limited mobility and the development of early arthritis.
“Our mission has always been to bring the absolute highest level of care,” said Dr. Tyler Stavinoha, pediatric orthopedic surgeon and director of the hip preservation surgery program at CHRISTUS Children’s. “Reaching 200 PAO procedures reflects the trust families place in our team and the commitment of an entire hospital system working to get these patients back to doing what they love.”
The PAO procedure is considered one of the most advanced treatments available for hip dysplasia. During the surgery, surgeons carefully reposition the hip socket to provide better coverage of the femoral head, improving stability and reducing pain while helping patients avoid or delay the need for a total hip replacement later in life.
“During the procedure, we carefully reposition the hip socket to better cover the femoral head, improving stability, reducing pain and helping to delay or prevent the need for a total hip replacement later in life,” Stavinoha said.
CHRISTUS Children’s credits its success to a multidisciplinary approach that brings together specialists from across the hospital system. The hip preservation team includes pediatric orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical therapists, child life specialists and rehabilitation professionals who work together throughout a patient’s treatment journey.
The comprehensive care model supports patients from diagnosis and surgical planning through recovery, rehabilitation and long-term follow-up.
Hospital officials say the collaborative approach helps ensure patients receive not only advanced medical treatment but also personalized support tailored to the needs of both patients and their families.
As part of Hip Dysplasia Awareness Month, CHRISTUS Children’s is encouraging parents to learn the warning signs of the condition and seek medical evaluation if concerns arise.
Common signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia may include:
- One leg appearing shorter than the other
- Limited range of motion in the hip joint
- A clicking or “clunking” sound when moving the hips
- Abnormal positioning of the thigh or lower leg
- Hip pain or limping in older children and adolescents
According to medical experts, early detection and treatment are critical to preserving joint health and maintaining mobility throughout life.
“Our goal is to make high-quality orthopedic care accessible to the community we serve,” Stavinoha said. “By combining advanced surgical expertise with reliable, compassionate support, we help patients move forward with confidence.”
With more than 200 PAO procedures completed, CHRISTUS Children’s continues to strengthen its role as a regional leader in pediatric orthopedic care, providing specialized treatment options for children, adolescents and young adults facing complex hip conditions.
Families seeking more information about hip dysplasia, symptoms and treatment options can visit the CHRISTUS Children’s website.