On this page· 3 sections
  1. 01Indications
  2. 02Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
  3. 03Surgery and Recovery

Hip arthroscopy is a joint-preserving closed surgical technique that involves accessing the hip joint through small incisions using a camera and surgical instruments. It particularly aims to prevent or delay the development of osteoarthritis by repairing joint damage in young and active patients.

Indications

  • Labral repair / reconstruction: Fixation of the torn labrum to the bone with anchor sutures
  • Cam resection (osteoplasty): Shaving of the bony prominence on the femoral head
  • Pincer resection: Correction of excessive bony overhang at the acetabular rim
  • Cartilage procedures: Debridement, microfracture
  • Removal of intra-articular loose bodies and treatment of synovial diseases

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

Hip arthroscopy yields the best results in patients with preserved joint space and no advanced osteoarthritis. In the presence of advanced osteoarthritis, arthroscopy does not relieve pain; in such cases, total hip replacement is the appropriate choice.

Surgery and Recovery

The surgery is performed on a specialized traction table; the joint is separated in a controlled manner to insert the camera. The procedure takes 1.5–3 hours. For labral repair, partial weight-bearing with crutches is applied for the first 4–6 weeks to protect healing; return to daily activities with physical therapy takes 6–8 weeks, while return to sports may take 4–6 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is hip arthroscopy performed on?
It is performed on young to middle-aged patients with labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), intra-articular loose bodies, and early-stage cartilage damage who have preserved joint space. It is not suitable for advanced osteoarthritis.
How is hip arthroscopy surgery performed?
The joint space is opened on a hip traction table, and work is performed with a camera and instruments through 2-3 small incisions. The labrum is repaired, and bony prominences causing impingement are trimmed.
How long does recovery after surgery take?
Wound problems are rare due to the small incisions. In labral repair, partial weight-bearing with crutches is applied for 4-6 weeks to protect bone healing; return to full sports may take 4-6 months.
Does hip arthroscopy eliminate the need for a prosthesis?
Arthroscopy performed at the right time (before advanced osteoarthritis develops) can delay or prevent the need for a prosthesis by correcting impingement and labral damage. In advanced osteoarthritis, however, the correct treatment is a prosthesis.