Hip arthroscopy, also referred to as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery, is performed through very small incisions to evaluate and treat a variety of hip conditions. Hip arthroscopy may be indicated for the following reasons:
- Repair of torn labrum: Within the hip the labrum lines the outer edge of the "socket" or acetabulum to ensure a good fit. Tears can occur in the labrum causing hip pain. These tears will be either debrided if the labrum is degenerate or repaired if the tissue is healthy and viable.
- Debridement of loose bodies: Bone chips or torn cartilage debris cause hip pain and decreased range of motion and can be removed with hip arthroscopy.
- Removal of bone spurs: Extra bone growth caused by injury or arthritis that damages the ends of the bones cause pain and limited joint mobility. This is the case in femoro-acetabular impingement (FAI).
- Debridement of joint surfaces: Conditions such as arthritis can cause the breakdown of tissue or bone in the joint.
- Evaluation and diagnosis: Patients with unexplained pain, swelling, stiffness and instability in the hip that is unresponsive to conservative treatment may undergo hip arthroscopy for evaluation and diagnosis of their condition.
