Hip Arthroscopy

What are the benefits of hip arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your orthopedic surgeon to view your inner hip structures by inserting a thin tube with a camera at the end — an arthroscope — into an incision. The tiny camera projects a live feed onto a high-definition monitor for easy viewing. 

In most cases, this type of surgery is preferred over traditional open surgery because it results in just a few small incisions, rather than a large incision. This can decrease your recovery time and postoperative pain since fewer tissues need to be cut or moved. Hip arthroscopy is also beneficial because it:

• Lowers your risk of infection
• Reduces surgical error and risk of bleeding
• Allows your orthopedic surgeon to make more precise repairs

Of course, not all conditions qualify for a hip arthroscopy (like a total hip replacement) so sometimes, traditional open surgery is still the best possible approach. 

Why do I need a hip arthroscopy?

When you come to the office for your hip arthroscopy evaluation, the Doctors examine you and look over your previous medical records. They may also gather in-office X-rays or ultrasound images to get a current glimpse of your hip joint. 

If conservative hip pain treatments have failed, or if you have a severe hip injury or condition we may recommend a hip arthroscopy. This minimally invasive procedure is beneficial for treating:

• Hip dysplasia
• Arthritic damage
• Hip joint infections 
• Inflammation (synovitis)
• Snapping hip syndromes
• Hip labral (cartilage) tear
• Inflammation (bursitis or synovitis) 
• Loose cartilage or bone fragments
• Extra bone development and spurs (femoroacetabular impingement or FAI)

The Doctors may even perform a hip arthroscopy for diagnostic purposes to get to the root of why you’re experiencing pain or hip joint stiffness. Because of all of the benefits, an arthroscopy has to offer, we provide this type of procedure for these types of circumstances and others. 

How long does it take to recover from hip arthroscopy?

You’re likely going to avoid bearing weight on your treated hip for about two to eight weeks, depending on your specific procedure. We may have you use crutches to get around.

Physical therapy is often needed several times per week, for at least a few months, to help you rebuild strength and flexibility. Full recovery with no limitations after a hip arthroscopy can take anywhere from three to six months. But our Doctors let you know what to expect from your personalized procedure beforehand.

Find out if hip arthroscopy is right for you by booking an evaluation at the office today. Click on the online scheduler, or call to speak with a team member.