[Intertrochanteric femoral osteotomy : Indications, surgical technique, results].

BACKGROUND: Intertrochanteric osteotomies are part of joint-preserving hip surgery. Indications involve not only the mature but also the growing skeleton. After identification of the causative pathologies multidimensional corrections with the aim of a better joint situation and prevention of early osteoarthritis are possible.

METHODS: The surgical technique of intertrochanteric osteotomies is presented. Potential indications are discussed on the basis of results in the literature.

RESULTS: In the surgical treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip intertrochanteric osteotomies are used as additional surgery. In Perthes disease the containment is improved while the onset of osteoarthritis in epiphysis capitis femoris can be decelerated. Treatment of torsion pathologies is reliable. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head and beginning osteoarthritis are critical indications.

CONCLUSION: For appropriate indications intertrochanteric osteotomies are a valuable element in joint-preserving surgery with very good long-term results.