In Which Conditions Is Hip Arthroscopy Used?

A Minimally Invasive Approach to Hip Joint Disorders

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves inserting a camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments into the hip joint through small incisions. This technique allows both diagnosis and treatment of various hip joint problems without the need for open surgery.

In recent years, hip arthroscopy has become a preferred method, especially for young and active individuals suffering from conditions like labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and cartilage damage.

What Is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy involves inserting a camera and surgical instruments into the hip joint through incisions typically 0.5–1 cm in size. Compared to open surgery, it offers many advantages:

• Smaller incisions
• Less tissue trauma
• Shorter recovery time
• Reduced pain and infection risk
• Better cosmetic outcome

Conditions Treated with Hip Arthroscopy

1. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

• Caused by abnormal contact between the femur and the acetabulum
• CAM and PINCER lesions can be reshaped arthroscopically
• Helps prevent early onset of hip osteoarthritis

2. Labral Tears

• Involves damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket
• Arthroscopy allows repair or debridement of the torn labrum

3. Cartilage Injuries

• Includes defects or fissures in the articular cartilage
• Techniques such as microfracture, debridement, or biological augmentation may be used

4. Loose Bodies in the Hip Joint

• Small bone or cartilage fragments may float in the joint after injury or degeneration
• These can be removed arthroscopically to relieve pain and improve motion

5. Iliopsoas Tendon Impingement

• Causes sharp pain in the front of the hip
• Tendon release or lengthening can be performed arthroscopically

6. Trochanteric Bursitis and Gluteus Medius Tears

• Lateral hip pain due to bursitis or muscle tears
• Arthroscopy allows debridement of inflamed tissue and tendon repair if needed

7. Snapping Hip Syndrome

• Caused by tendons snapping over bony structures
• Treated by releasing or smoothing the affected tendon or soft tissue

8. Hip Joint Infection or Synovitis

• Joint inflammation or fluid accumulation due to infection
• Can be washed out and treated arthroscopically

Who Is a Good Candidate for Hip Arthroscopy?

• Individuals aged 18 to 55 with hip pain but no advanced osteoarthritis
• Athletes experiencing hip pain or decreased performance
• Patients with labral tears or mechanical symptoms like clicking or locking
• Those who have not responded to conservative treatment methods

Benefits of Hip Arthroscopy

• Minimally invasive, less tissue damage
• Faster recovery and return to sports
• Combined diagnosis and treatment in one session
• Lower complication rate
• Less pain and shorter hospital stay