What is Protrusio acetabuli ?
Protrusio acetabuli is a condition in which the socket of the hip joint (acetabulum) pushes abnormally inward into the pelvis. This leads to hip joint instability, stiffness, and pain, and over time, it may result in severe joint degeneration.
When conservative treatment fails or joint damage becomes significant, Total Hip Replacement (THR) becomes the gold standard solution. At my orthopedic clinic in Indore, I’ve treated many complex hip conditions, including protrusio acetabuli, with advanced hip replacement techniques.
🧑⚕️ “मैं डॉ. अनुपम खंडेलवाल, हड्डी व जोड़ विशेषज्ञ, इंदौर से हूँ। अगर आपकी कमर या जाँघ के जोड़ में लगातार दर्द है, तो यह Protrusio Acetabuli हो सकता है – समय पर इलाज बहुत जरूरी है।”
Hindi – Protusio Acetabulum short video
English – Protusio Acetabulum short video
🔍 Clinical Symptoms
Protrusio acetabuli may develop due to congenital causes, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, trauma, or infections like tuberculosis. Its symptoms are often progressive and include:
- Deep groin pain and hip discomfort, especially on weight-bearing
- Limited hip movement (especially inward rotation)
- Limp while walking
- Shortening of the affected leg
- In advanced cases: limb deformity or pelvic asymmetry
If you’re experiencing these symptoms in Bhopal, Ujjain, Jabalpur, Ratlam, or Khandwa, visit an orthopedic specialist promptly for evaluation.
🧪 Investigations
Accurate diagnosis is key to successful treatment planning. Common investigations include:
✅ X-rays:
- Show the medial displacement of the acetabulum into the pelvis
- Help in grading the severity of protrusio (e.g., using Sotelo-Garza & Charnley classification)
✅ CT Scan or MRI:
- Provide detailed images of bone and soft tissue
- Essential for pre-operative planning
✅ Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan):
- To assess for underlying osteoporosis, which often contributes to protrusio
✅ Blood Tests:
- To rule out infections or autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
At our center in Indore, we offer coordinated diagnostics for patients from Khargone, Guna, and surrounding districts of Madhya Pradesh.
⚠️ Prevention
While not all cases can be prevented—especially congenital or inflammatory causes—you can reduce risk and slow progression by:
- Early treatment of hip joint pain and inflammatory conditions
- Timely diagnosis of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis
- Avoiding excessive weight-bearing activities in vulnerable joints
- Fall prevention in elderly or osteoporotic patients
- Regular orthopedic follow-ups, especially if hip pain is persistent
🧘 “घुटनों की तरह कूल्हे के जोड़ की सेहत भी जरूरी है – अगर चलने में दर्द हो, तो अनदेखी ना करें।”
🏥 Treatment: Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Once the protrusio leads to joint collapse or severe pain, the most effective treatment is Total Hip Replacement (THR). However, surgery in protrusio cases is more complex than standard THR.
💡 Challenges in Protrusio Acetabuli:
- Thin medial acetabular wall
- Distorted anatomy
- Difficulty in implant placement and fixation
🦿 My Surgical Approach:
I use specialized implants and bone grafting techniques for these cases:
- Cementless or cemented cups with additional fixation rings
- Structural bone grafts or cages to reconstruct the acetabulum
- Limb length correction to restore proper biomechanics
The surgery typically takes 90–120 minutes, and most patients start walking with support within 48 hours after surgery. With the right post-operative care and physiotherapy, patients regain pain-free mobility within 6–8 weeks.
At my Indore center, patients from Bhopal, Ujjain, Jabalpur, Guna, and other parts of MP receive complete pre-operative counselling, advanced surgery, and post-op rehabilitation under one roof.
🙋♂️ Patient Testimonial
“मेरी माँ के कूल्हे में लंबे समय से दर्द था, और इंदौर में डॉ. अनुपम से पता चला कि यह Protrusio Acetabuli है। उनकी सर्जरी के बाद अब वे बिना सहारे चल सकती हैं। डॉक्टर साहब ने बहुत अच्छा काम किया!”
– दीपक शर्मा, भोपाल (Bhopal)
🌟 Why Choose Dr. Anupam Khandelwal?
- 🏥 Fellowship-trained Joint Replacement Surgeon
- 🦴 Specialized in complex hip surgeries including Protrusio Acetabuli
- 📍 Trusted by patients from Indore, Bhopal, Ujjain, Jabalpur, Khargone, Ratlam, Guna & entire Madhya Pradesh
- 💬 Personalized care with in-depth counselling and follow-up
- 💉 Expert in using advanced implants and surgical techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Protrusio Acetabuli is a condition where the hip socket moves inward into the pelvic cavity. Unlike regular osteoarthritis, it leads to deep socket deformity and often requires special surgical techniques during total hip replacement. It can result from inflammatory conditions, osteoporosis, or be congenital.
A. Yes, when performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon, THR is very safe and effective even in protrusio cases. However, it requires special planning, sometimes bone grafting or reinforcement rings, and precise execution to restore joint function and stability.
A. Most patients stay for 3 to 5 days post-surgery. Early mobilization begins within 24–48 hours, and most patients start walking with a walker before discharge.
A. In most cases, patients recover well in 6–8 weeks with physiotherapy. You can resume daily activities, walk without support, and live a pain-free life after complete recovery.
A. Yes, osteoporosis is a major contributing factor, especially in elderly patients. We recommend bone density testing and proper medication to manage or prevent worsening of the condition.
A. With proper surgery and rehab, patients enjoy excellent outcomes, including pain relief, restored leg length, and better mobility. Implants usually last 15–20 years or more.
A. Absolutely. We regularly see patients from across Madhya Pradesh – Bhopal, Ujjain, Ratlam, Khandwa, Guna, Khargone, Jabalpur, and nearby rural areas. We also assist with travel planning, imaging, and post-operative follow-ups.
A. Yes, many elderly patients undergo successful hip replacement surgeries. We evaluate the patient’s overall health and tailor anesthesia and rehabilitation accordingly for safe recovery.
A. You can call us directly at +91-8818814030 or visit our website www.dranupamkhandelwal.com to book your appointment. Our clinic is located in Indore, with teleconsultation support available for outstation patients.
🕊️ Final Thoughts
Total Hip Replacement in cases of Protrusio Acetabuli is a life-changing procedure that demands expertise, planning, and precision. With the right surgeon and care team, patients can regain pain-free, independent mobility and return to normal life.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic hip pain or difficulty walking, especially with a diagnosis of protrusio acetabuli, don’t delay. Book a consultation with me – Dr. Anupam Khandelwal – at my clinic in Indore today.
📞 Contact Us: +91-8818814030
🌐 www.dranupamkhandelwal.com