Hip Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that gives a clear view of the inside of a joint. During hip arthroscopy, Dr. Xenos inserts a small camera (arthroscope) into your hip joint. The camera displays pictures on a monitor and this allows visualization of the hip and use of small surgical instruments.

The hip is a ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) joint. In a healthy joint, cartilage covers these and the hip glides through motions easily. In addition there is a fibrous labrum forming a rim along the acetabulum. Joint (synovial) fluid lubricates the joint. A capsule made up of ligaments surrounds the joint.

Several conditions in the hip may require arthroscopic surgery if not responding to nonsurgical treatment. These conditions include: labral tears, femoracetabular impingement, loose bodies and more.

Most often hip arthroscopy will be an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. A few small incisions will be made for the arthroscope and instruments. There are a variety of procedures done arthroscopically depending on your condition. Depending on the procedure, you may require crutches, a walker and/or physical therapy after the surgery.

Most often people return to their regular activities after hip arthroscopy. This is dependent on the procedure performed.