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About Hip Arthroscopy

The hip arthroscopy (or “hip scope”) procedure has been slower to develop in the United States than arthroscopy of the knee and shoulder because the hip is deeper in the body and less accessible. Additionally, because the hip is a “ball and socket” type joint, it is necessary to use traction in order to expose the joint enough to fit the surgical instruments inside the joint without causing further damage to the cartilage and labrum.

A “hip scope” or arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure. The procedure is done using 2-3 small incisions (approximately 1/4-1/2 inch long) rather than a larger incision as used in a typical “open surgery”. The small incisions are used to insert the surgical instruments into the joint.

A fluoroscope, or portable x-ray, aids the surgeon during the surgery to ensure that the instruments and arthroscope are inserted properly.

The long thin camera, also known as arthroscope, allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint. Tools known as “shavers” allow the surgeon to cut away the frayed cartilage or labrum that is the source of pain. The shaver is also used to shave away the of bone pieces that are responsible for the cartilage or labral damage.

A “hip scope” is normally performed as an “outpatient” surgery, allowing the patient to recover at home. Normally, the patient is under local anesthesia, meaning the patient is numbed only from the waist down and a breathing tube is not required.

Following the procedure, patients are usually given crutches to use for the first 1-2 weeks to minimize pressure on the hip. Sutures are typically removed about a week after surgery. Following this appointment, patients often begin physical therapy that improves strength and flexibility in the hip. Many patients can return to normal activities after six weeks of physical therapy, however it may take 3-6 months for the individual to experience no soreness or pain following physical activity.

So, who is a candidate?

Patients who respond best to hip arthroscopy are active individuals with hip pain, where there exists an opportunity to preserve the amount of cartilage they still have. Studies have indicated that 85-90% of hip arthroscopy patients return to sports and other physical activities at the level they were at before their onset of hip pain.

Who is not a candidate?

Patients who have already suffered significant cartilage loss in the joint may be better suited to have a more extensive operation, such as a hip replacement.

NO PHYSICIAN REFERRAL IS NEEDED UNLESS REQUIRED BY YOUR INSURANCE

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