Hip Arthroscopy
Hip Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that gives doctors a clear view of the inside of a joint. This helps them diagnose and treat joint problems.
Hip Arthroscopy may be used for a variety of hip conditions, primarily the treatment of labral tears, hip impingement, articular cartilage injuries, and the removal of loose bodies in the joint. Other less frequent conditions treated through hip arthroscopy include tendon or ligament injuries, hip instability, and an inflamed or damaged synovium. Because all of these conditions may eventually lead to hip arthritis, treating them with arthroscopic procedures may be a beneficial option for patients.
Dr. Dolan may recommend hip arthroscopy if you have a painful condition that does not respond to nonsurgical treatment. Nonsurgical treatment includes rest, physical therapy, and medications or injections that can reduce inflammation. Arthroscopic hip surgery is a positive measure to regain your active lifestyle that hip pain is preventing.
The Procedure
Your surgeon will make a small puncture in your hip (about the size of a buttonhole) for the arthroscope. Through the arthroscope, he or she can view the inside of your hip and identify damage. Your surgeon will insert other instruments through separate incisions to treat the problem. A range of procedures can be done, such as smoothing off or repairing torn cartilage, trimming bone spurs, or removing inflamed tissue, depending on your needs. The length of the procedure will depend on what your surgeon finds and the amount of work to be done.
After The Procedure
Many people return to full, unrestricted activities after arthroscopy. Your recovery will depend on the type of damage that was present in your hip.
In most cases, physical therapy is necessary to achieve the best recovery. Specific exercises to restore your strength and mobility are important.