Hip arthroscopy is a popular, minimally-invasive surgical technique that is performed to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Doctors perform arthroscopy to get an up-close look at the hip joint when trying to identify the source of pain. They may also perform this procedure to make minor repairs in or around the hip joint if more conservative treatments, such as medication and physical therapy, do not yield the desired amount of improvement.
What is a Hip Arthroscopy Procedure?
Hip arthroscopy is a popular, minimally-invasive surgical technique that is performed to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Doctors perform arthroscopy to get an up-close look at the hip joint when trying to identify the source of pain. They may also perform this procedure to make minor repairs in or around the hip joint if more conservative treatments, such as medication and physical therapy, do not yield the desired amount of improvement.
What Conditions can Hip Arthroscopy Treat?
There are several reasons hip arthroscopy may be performed. Conditions that may be treated with this technique include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Labral tear
- Femoroacetabular impingement
- Bursitis
- Hip dysplasia
- Synovitis
- Snapping Hip Syndrome
What is Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)?
Femoroacetabular impingement describes "pinching" that occurs when the femoral head rubs up against the cup of the hip (the acetabulum). This impingement may occur for two reasons. One is that there is a deformity of the ball of the femur. For example, the ball is more oval-shaped than round. Another reason for FAI is that the cup of the hip, the acetabulum, is not shaped normally. Friction between the femoral head and the cup of the hip occurs as a result. This friction can damage the labrum, the cartilage tissue around the acetabulum.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Hip Arthroscopy?
Patients of all ages have received hip arthroscopy as needed to diagnose and repair various injuries. A doctor may recommend this procedure if you suffer from significant pain or a decrease in your normal amount of mobility. Careful examination and conversation occurs during a consultation for hip pain. Orthopedic surgeons generally do not perform hip arthroscopy on patients suffering from moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the hip. In that scenario, more comprehensive joint rehabilitation may be necessary. Before advising a patient to undergo surgery, most doctors first suggest conservative treatments, including physical therapy.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
Your hip arthroscopy will most likely be done while you're under general anesthesia. You may also receive a local anesthetic block. Minor arthroscopic hip procedures may take less than an hour. If your doctor also needs to repair part of the hip, the procedure can take up to a few hours. You will be fully informed about the details of your outpatient procedure before the day of surgery. We're committed to ensuring that you feel confident and fully prepared for your arthroscopy, including how much time you can expect to spend in the outpatient surgery center.
What is the Recovery Like after a Hip Arthroscopy?
It can take about three months to completely recover from hip arthroscopy. It's at that time when you can expect to receive full clearance from your surgeon to perform a full range of physical activities, including heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. The degree of clearance you receive, and when, can depend on the arthroscopic procedures you have done. Your doctor should ensure that you're fully informed about what to expect prior to your surgery.
You will most likely need to use crutches or some other form of aid when walking during your first few weeks of recovery. You may be advised to limit weight bearing on the operated leg and may need to wear a brace once you transition out of your walker or crutches. Your surgeon will also schedule a post-op visit about two weeks after surgery.
Physical therapy is an integral aspect of hip arthroscopy recovery. Your surgeon may order a number of sessions with a licensed physical therapist who will demonstrate and prescribe exercises that rebuild the strength and flexibility of the operated joint. The timeline for physical therapy after hip arthroscopy is highly variable from one person to another. When you visit Cynergy Physical and Occupational Therapy in NYC, we'll make sure that you are aware of everything you need to know to make the most of your sessions and homework.
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