Hip Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive Hip Surgery
Hip arthroscopy is an advanced medical procedure that utilizes minimally invasive surgical techniques through small incisions (around a half inch in length). This is an outpatient procedure that uses a camera and instruments through these small incisions to improve anatomy. Utilizing these techniques, there are lower complication rates, less pain and quicker recovery time. Our specialists will use these methods to treat many common hip problems and disorders, including femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, loose bodies, and cartilage damage.
Conditions Treated with Hip Arthroscopy
Labral Tear of the Hip
The labrum is a ring of soft cartilage between the femoral head (ball) and acetabulum (socket) that helps the hip joint glide effortlessly. When torn, it can lead to painful symptoms like catching or popping in the groin or buttock region. Hip arthroscopy can be used to repair or reconstruct this structure to improve symptoms.
Loose Bodies
Small pieces of bone or cartilage can become dislodged and float around the hip joint. These loose bodies may remain asymptomatic, but should be surgically removed as they can cause pain and instability. Arthroscopic removal is an effective, minimally invasive option.
Cartilage Damage
Cartilage defects and flaps often accompany impingement and labral tears. Hip arthroscopy can improve these defects and flaps either by removal or cleaning of the edges. In some cases, microfracture (drilling small holes in the cartilage defect) may be used to create scar cartilage in the defect to assist in pain control and function.
Hip Impingement Lesion – Cam and Pincer Lesions
Hip arthroscopy can be utilized to re-contour the bones to remove bone prominences on the socket (pincer lesions) or on the ball (cam lesions). This procedure can improve pain and increase spacing in the joint. This is often done in combination with labral repair.
Hip Bursitis
Inflammation of the hip bursa (fluid filled sac to diminish friction) on the outside of the hip can be managed with hip arthroscopy if it does not improve with non-operative management. The arthroscopy can remove the bursa and evaluate the surrounding structures including the IT Band and abductor tendons (gluteus medius and minimus).
Is arthroscopy right for you?
If you are considering an arthroscopic procedure to address an injury or disorder of the hip, contact Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance today to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic surgeons. We will help you understand the benefits, risks, and results you can expect from this treatment option.
Schedule Your Hip Arthroscopy Consultation
To learn more about hip arthroscopy and whether it is right for your condition, contact Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance today at 414-384-6700. Our team in Southeastern Wisconsin is ready to help.