Hip arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to visualize and treat various conditions affecting the hip joint. It involves the use of a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted through small incisions around the hip area.

Here’s a step-by-step description of a hip arthroscopy:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia or sometimes regional anesthesia, ensuring they are unconscious or numb during the procedure.
2. Incisions: The surgeon makes two or three small incisions, typically about 1 centimeter in length, around the hip joint.
3. Arthroscope insertion: The arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera and light source at the end, is inserted through one of the incisions. This allows the surgeon to visualize the inside of the hip joint on a monitor.
4. Exploration and diagnosis: The surgeon carefully examines the structures inside the hip joint, including the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bones. They can assess any abnormalities, such as labral tears, loose bodies, or impingements, that may be causing pain or limited mobility.
5. Treatment: Depending on the specific condition, the surgeon may perform various procedures to address the problem. These can include:
   • Labral repair or debridement: If there is a tear in the labrum (a ring of cartilage around the hip socket), it can be repaired or trimmed to alleviate symptoms.
   • Removal of loose bodies: If there are any loose fragments of cartilage or bone within the joint, they can be removed to prevent further damage and reduce pain.
   • Bone reshaping: In cases of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), where the hip bones have an abnormal shape that causes friction and pain, the surgeon can use specialized instruments to reshape and smoothen the bones.
   • Treatment of other conditions: The surgeon may address other hip conditions, such as hip dysplasia or synovitis, based on the diagnosis.
6. Closure: After completing the necessary procedures, the surgeon removes the arthroscope and other instruments. The incisions are typically closed with sutures or small adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.
7. Recovery: The patient is taken to a recovery area where they are closely monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off. Pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises are usually recommended to aid in the recovery process.