Photo courtesy of Stryker, 2023
What is a Hip Arthroscopy?
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows an orthopedic surgeon to visualize and treat the hip joint using a series of small incisions. This procedure is used to evaluate pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, and popping of the hip – all issues that have not responded to conservative treatment options, such as physical therapy. A common cause of hip pain in young patients is a labral tear of the hip. Oftentimes, this is the result of hip impingement. In basic terms, hip impingement is abnormal contact between the ball and socket of the hip that can cause a tear of the labrum – a ring of cartilage around the hip socket. Once a tear occurs, it can be extremely painful. Common symptoms of a labral tear include increasing groin pain with physical activity and working out.
How is a Hip Arthroscopy performed?
Hip arthroscopy is performed through a series of small incisions around the hip joint, typically at an outpatient surgery center. An arthroscope is used to project the internal view of the hip onto a large monitor so that the surgeon has a clear image of potential problems or damage. At the same time, the surgeon uses small surgical instruments through additional incisions to complete needed repairs.
At Azalea Orthopedics, we typically begin with non-operative management solutions. However, if the symptoms do not improve, we may recommend this procedure. Hip arthroscopy is one of the fastest growing sub-specialties in Orthopedics, and we have embraced current technologies to benefit our patients. Such technologies include a full pre-operative evaluation using CT HipMap technology as well as having the capability to perform this procedure using post-less surgical table technology.
Benefits and outcomes
While this procedure is performed in a surgical center under general anesthesia, it does have several benefits compared to open hip surgery. These benefits can include:
- Small incisions help minimize scars and reduce the invasiveness of the procedure
- Less bleeding
- Shorter recovery time
Dr. Justin Bartley at Azalea Orthopedics has completed dedicated training in hip arthroscopy to better care for young patients with hip pain.
Watch this inspiring comeback story by a patient of Dr. Bartley’s after she underwent bilateral hip surgeries.
Learn more by clicking on the link below, courtesy of Stryker.
