What is hip arthroscopy?
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows you to see and work directly inside the joint with small incisions in the skin, less than one centimeter each.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and lasts approximately 90 minutes, although the duration will depend on the type of injury and the treatment applied.
Why is it performed?
This type of arthroscopy is indicated to diagnose with certainty:
- Problems of blockage or pain in the hip.
- For the removal of intra-articular free bodies.
- For tears of the labrum (stabilizing cartilage of the femoral head).
- For femoroacetabular impingement (an excess of friction in hip movements).
What does it consist of?
During the procedure, a traction of the leg is performed, so that the joint space is maximally distended to facilitate the procedure. The surgeon will mark on the patient’s hip some anatomical references to locate the entry points, where small incisions smaller than 1 cm will be made, which are called arthroscopic portals. For the incision of the size of an eyelet to introduce the arthroscope; and other small incisions to introduce the surgical instruments. It is usual to make two to three small incisions or portals, depending on the surgical procedure.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and lasts approximately 90 minutes.
Preparation for hip arthroscopy
During the 2 weeks before surgery, the specialist may ask you to stop taking medications that make it difficult for your blood to clot.
In addition, alcohol consumption and smoking should be reported, as smoking can delay wound healing and bone welding.
Care after the operation
After the procedure it is possible that the patient may feel discomfort, edema and numbness in the pubis, for a few hours or days. During 1 week or 10 days, in general, activity is allowed according to discomfort and relative rest.
Approximately 5-7 days after the arthroscopy, a first check-up and treatment will be performed at the clinic and you will be advised to start treatment with the physiotherapy team. They will start a personalized treatment to your injury and our protocols will be adapted to your specific case.
During the first 15 days, the objective will be:
- Mobilize the joint to avoid adhesions.
- Decrease inflammation and pain
- Avoid muscle atrophy
It is also important to follow these tips:
- Do not force hip flexion to more than 90 degrees.
- Partial loading with two crutches
- Do not force rotations
- Make changes of position every hour (sit/stretch).
- Perform rehabilitation guidelines and exercises as indicated by professionals
Alternatives to this treatment
The latest technical innovation for the treatment of hip pathologies. The traditional treatment for treating osteoarthritis of the hip, rheumatoid arthritis or hip fracture hip surgery with the realization of the replacement of a hip prosthesis.