Hip arthroscopy is an important procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of various hip conditions,
offering patients a less invasive option compared to traditional open surgery. This procedure allows
surgeons to view the hip joint without the need for a large incision through the skin and other soft tissues.
What is hip arthroscopy?
Hip arthroscopy is a surgical technique that allows doctors to examine and treat the inside of the hip joint using a small camera, called an arthroscope, and specialized instruments. This minimally invasive approach helps diagnose and repair hip problems with fewer incisions, less pain and reduced recovery time. The procedure is especially beneficial for athletes and active individuals seeking a quick return to their activities. minimally invasive approach helps diagnose and repair hip problems with fewer incisions, less pain and reduced recovery time. The procedure is especially beneficial for athletes and active individuals seeking a quick return to their activities.
Causes and symptoms leading to hip arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is usually recommended to treat hip pain and mobility problems that are not treated with
non-surgical treatment methods. Conditions that may necessitate hip arthroscopy include:
Ruptures of the labral cartilage, the cartilage surrounding the hip joint, often due to sports injuries or structural abnormalities.
Femoral impingement syndrome(FAI), in which extra bone grows along one or both of the bones that
form the hip joint, giving the bones an irregular shape and causing them to rub together.
- Crooked hip syndrome, which occurs when a tendon rubs against the outside of the joint.
- Dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint is abnormally shallow, resulting in more pressure on the rim to keep the head of the femur in the socket.
Hip bursitis, an inflammation of the articular tissue surrounding the joint.
Loose bodies, which are fragments of bone or cartilage that loosen and move around within the joint.
Osteoarthritis, to clean up the damaged cartilage or to diagnose the extent of the disease.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for hip arthroscopy include persistent or unexplained hip pain, limited range of motion, and a feeling of gripping, locking or retraction of the hip.
Diagnosis leading to hip arthroscopy
Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, followed by imaging tests. X- rays can show bone-related problems, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are more effective in revealing soft tissue conditions such as ruptured cartilage.
Hip arthroscopy procedure
Hip arthroscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves making small
incisions through which the arthroscope and surgical instruments are inserted. The camera transmits
images to a monitor, guiding the surgeon in repairing or removing damaged tissue using various
techniques. The goal is to relieve pain and improve joint function with minimal disruption to surrounding
tissues.
After surgery, patients may need crutches for a period of time, and physical therapy is often recommended
to speed recovery and strengthen the hip joint. Recovery time varies; many patients can return to light
activities within a few weeks, although full recovery can take several weeks.
Prevention tips for arthritis
Although not all hip conditions can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk of injuries that may lead to the need for hip arthroscopy:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joints.
- Hip and core muscle strengthening exercises can improve joint stability.
- The Flexibility exercises can maintain or improve range of motion and reduce the risk of injury.
- Proper techniques in sports and physical activities can prevent overuse injuries.
- Avoid repetitive strain on the hips.
Hip arthroscopy offers a promising solution for diagnosing and treating various hip conditions with less pain, faster recovery times and potentially lower risks than traditional surgery. With the right approach, hip arthroscopy can be an effective pathway to relieve pain and restore mobility, allowing patients to return to their daily activities with confidence.
To learn more about hip arthroscopy contact us at 211 - 4057040, 6943903343 (secretary) or 6949196061 (physician) and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make your appointment.
