Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy-also known as arthroscopic hip surgery-brings a number of benefits to those who undergo the procedure. These include smaller incisions, an accelerated course of rehab and, ultimately, a much speedier return to athletic activities. As a minimally invasive surgical procedure, hip arthroscopy is used to both diagnose and repair joint injuries and conditions.
Although practiced for a number of years, hip arthroscopy surgery has not evolved as quickly as arthroscopy of other joints, such as the knee or shoulder. Because the hip joint is found much deeper in the body, it is harder to gain access to it. This is why it is very important for anyone performing hip arthroscopy to not only have a lot of experience in arthroscopic procedures, but also be well versed in dealing with the hip itself. Los Angeles orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine expert Dr. Kandil is regarded as an expert in this field.
HIP INJURIES AND CONDITIONS Hip injuries and conditions that Dr. Kandil can diagnose and treat with arthroscopic surgery include the following:- Femoro-Acetabular Impingement (FAI)
- Acetabular labral tears
- Loose bodies
- Cartilage damage/Chondral Lesions
- Arthritis
- Hip capsule laxity and instability
- Osteochondritis dissecans
- Ligamentum teres injuries
- Snapping hip syndrome
- Iliopsoas bursitis
- Loose bodies (synovial chondromatosis)
- Toxic synovitis
- Septic arthritis
- Developmental dysplasia of the hip
- Legg-Calve Perthes disease
During an arthroscopic procedure, the leg is placed into gentle traction to pull the femoral head away from the socket just far enough so that Dr. Kandil can view the entire joint and insert instruments to perform the necessary treatments. Small incisions are made, through which the arthroscope and surgical instruments can be inserted. Dr. Kandil then performs a full diagnostic evaluation of the joint.
The arthroscopic hip procedures that can be performed from this point include:- Smoothing or repairing labral tears
- Decompressing or “sculpting” areas of bony impingement
- Trimming bone spurs
- Removing loose bodies of inflamed tissue
- Debriding or “smoothing out” loose or damaged cartilage
HIP ARTHROSCOPY RECOVERY AND REHABILITATION
Although each patient’s recovery will vary, patients are usually discharged from the recovery room within one to two hours after arthroscopic hip surgery. It is important that they have someone to drive them home following their procedure. The use of crutches may be required for a period of up to four weeks following surgery. In the first weeks after surgery, patients work on regaining motion around the joint and perform gentle strengthening exercises. Typically, patients work with a physical therapist for assistance with these exercises and stretches.
Most patients can begin light activities (such as cycling or swimming) within a few weeks, though patients most often take about 12 weeks for recovery. Of course, there are specific procedures that may require a more lengthy rehabilitation, so check with your doctor about the specific plans for your recovery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION ABOUT HIP ARTHROSCOPY
Q: Is a physical examination necessary before having arthroscopic hip surgery?
A: Yes, you will need a physical examination to assess your health and determine if there are any problems that may interfere with surgery.
Q: Should I tell my surgeon about any medication I’m taking?
A: It is very important that your surgeon know if you are currently taking any medications prior to surgery. You could be required to stop taking these medications before undergoing the procedure.
Q: What complications could occur from this type of surgery?
A: Complications from hip arthroscopy surgery may include injury to nerves or vessels, infection, and blood clots. The traction could also stretch some nerves and cause numbness, but this is usually only a temporary condition. Fortunately, complications after arthroscopic hip surgery are very uncommon.
Q: Do I have to go through any rehabilitation after hip arthroscopy, and if so, what exercises might I have to do?
A: Your specific rehabilitation program depends on the surgery you have had. Exercises can include gentle progressive resistive exercises, increased range of motion exercises, gentle joint distraction techniques, and balance work.
Q: What are the long term outcomes of hip arthroscopy?
A: Recovery is dependent upon the nature of the original injury or condition and the extent of damage in the joint, as well as the patient’s commitment to rehab. Many people who undergo hip arthroscopy surgery return to a high level of activity.
CONTACT AN ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST IN LOS ANGELES TODAY!
If you would like more information about hip arthroscopy or have any other questions that can be answered by Dr. Kandil, contact Kandil Orthopedic Sports Medicine today at 310-736-2793. You can also make an appointment by booking online.
