Acetabular Retroversion

What is Acetabular Retroversion?

Acetabular retroversion is a condition that occurs when the hip socket (acetabulum) is abnormally rotated backwards compared to the normal socket position. This can be seen as an isolated malalignment, or as part of hip dysplasia. This can lead to a variety of hip problems, including hip impingement, labral tears and even arthritis.

How is acetabular retroversion diagnosed?

Symptoms of acetabular retroversion may include:

Pain in the hip or groin area, especially during activities that involve hip flexion, such a sitting or squatting
Buttock pain or gluteal fatigue or dysfunction
Clicking or catching in the joint
Limited range of motion in the hip joint

Diagnosis of acetabular retroversion typically involves detailed examination and imaging. Imaging such as X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans may be needed to evaluate the malalignment of the hip and identify any associated damage such as labral tear.

How is acetabular retroversion treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and functional limitations, as well as the extent of damage but may be in the form of the following:

Conservative management with anti-inflammatories, injections or dedicated physiotherapy program to help control hip and spine position
Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery to address the cartilage or labrum, or to correct the impingement. This is done using small instruments to repair or remove the damaged tissue and make the correction.
Open surgery to correct the malalignment of the hip in the form of a periacetabular osteotomy which involves repositioning the socket (acetabulum) to improve its alignment and hip function

Dr Eardley-Harris has been extensively trained and has experience in both diagnosis and non-operative and operative intervention for acetabular retroversion and will discuss with you further details specific to your hip at your consultation.

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Note: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek professional medical advice for you, and your child's specific condition.

Meet Nathan

Adult & Paediatric Hip and Knee Surgeon

Dr Nathan Eardley-Harris has experience in providing care for patients throughout the entire spectrum of life

As an Australian-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon based in Adelaide, South Australia specialising in hip and knee surgery covering very young children to the elderly and everyone in-between, Nathan offers personalised care to help patients find the best outcomes in every unique condition.

He has subspecialty, post-fellowship training in hip preservation surgery and joint replacement, including robotic & technology-assisted surgery across all approaches, including the direct anterior approach. Through compassion, communication, collaboration & competence, Nathan aims to build patient-surgeon trust, helping you understand your condition and the options available to empower you to make better treatment decisions toward your personal recovery goals. With stronger, better-informed patient-surgeon relationships, evidence-based surgical techniques and the latest assistive technology, Nathan aims to provide patients with the best possible care.

My Approach

Personalised Care

Your condition, goals and challenges are unique to you, and your management should reflect that. There is no one-size-fits-all method for treatment - your care is tailored to your situation.

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With the latest technology including robotics and 3D personalised planning to support evidence-proven surgical techniques, you get accurate, precise results. If surgery is necessary, it’s customised to your situation.

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Comprehensive Surgical Care

Decision for Surgery

Together we have made the decision that surgery is the best pathway forward. Our team will discuss with you the timing and the location of your surgery, including the expected length of stay in hospital.

Personalised Surgical Planning

Dr Eardley-Harris will sit down and plan your specific surgery to best achieve your goals. This may involve further tests needed for the planning, as well as any unique circumstances to your condition or injury.

Preparation

Prior to surgery, you will be given specific instructions to be ready for the operation. This may include certain tests, medication management, and pre-surgery & aftercare information.

Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, Dr Eardley-Harris will visit you in the pre-operative room, and answer any other questions that you have, and ensure that you are ready for your procedure. During your surgery, our team will ensure you are comfortable and well-informed.

Recovery

Following surgery you will enter the recovery room, with specialised nursing care. Here, you and your family will be informed of the findings, allowing you to be confident in the outcome. You will follow your pre-planned aftercare procedures to allow your body to recover.

Questions

Choosing surgery is a significant decision that often involves careful consideration of various factors. If you have any questions throughout your process, feel free to ask Dr Eardley-Harris' team for further clarity.

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