Hip Arthroscopy: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Hip Joint Problems
Hip pain can be a frustrating and limiting experience, especially when it starts interfering with everyday activities like walking, bending, or getting dressed. For many (especially young or active people) likelihood of significant improvement with a relatively modern minimally invasive option (hip arthroscopy). This advanced surgical method not only aids in diagnosing issues with the joint, but also treats a variety of hip conditions — all without the need for large cuts.
In this complete guide, we will take a look at what hip arthroscopy is, what to expect before and after, the potential benefits, as well as recovery time, cost and long term outcomes. Whether you’re contemplating hip surgery or just want to know what is causing your hip pain, this blog is designed to answer all your questions.
What is Hip Arthroscopy?
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive operation that enables the orthopaedic surgeon to look inside and treat damage within the hip joint. Compared to open surgery, the size of the incisions needed for arthroscopic surgery is much smaller and occasionally requires no stitches (2 or 3 small stitches).
This procedure lets surgeons see, in real time, deep inside the hip, at structures like cartilage, ligaments and the labrum — and do so without cutting large swaths through the body. Hip Arthroscopy Hip arthroscopy is often performed to treat such conditions as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, loose cartilage fragments, hip dysplasia and early arthritis. In fact, it has been found to help slow down or prevent the need for full hip replacement surgery within many people.
The Hip Arthroscopy Procedure: What to Expect
Before a patient has a hip surgery, they will usually receive imaging, for example X-rays, MRI, or a CT scan, to locate the issue within the hip joint. You’ll also meet with your orthopaedic surgeon to go over your anaesthesia options, which typically involve general (you’re put to sleep for the procedure) or occasionally regional (only your lower body is numbed).
During surgery:
- The surgeon makes several small cuts around the hip.
- A fibreoptic telescopic instrument called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint, so that the surgeon can see exactly what is happening, displayed on a screen.
- Under guidance from this video, small instruments are employed to shave, repair, or remove damaged tissue.
The complete operation will usually last for 1–2 hours, depending on complexity. Many patients go home the same day, though some need a brief overnight stay, particularly if more extensive work is being done.
Benefits and Advantages of Hip Arthroscopy
Advantages of hip arthroscopy as compared to traditional, open surgery include:
- Less scarring as a result of smaller incisions.
- Less postoperative pain as there is little damage to the soft tissue.
- Patients can go back to work, back to sport quicker.
- Reduced risk of infection or blood loss.
Also, as this process enables the surgeon to diagnose and treat a problem at the same time, it can often save the patient from having to have several surgeries.
Recovery Time and Rehabilitation
Hip arthroscopy recovery is faster than open surgery recovery, however, it still recovery is still required.
- Week 1–2: Crutches for weight modifying on the affected hip. Swelling and pain are typical, and a painkiller may be prescribed.
- Weeks 3–6: You will start gentle physiotherapy to regain movement and prevent your joints from becoming stiff.
- Weeks 6–12: Strengthening exercises are progressively added in. Patients frequently return to light activities such as walking or office work.
- 3–6 months: Most people return to full function, including low-impact or moderate physical activities.
A complete recovery could take 6 months, depending on the patient’s situation, age and way of life. Compliance with post-op physiotherapy is key to success.
Risks and Long-Term Outcomes
Like all surgery, there are some risks associated with hip arthroscopy. These can include infection, blood clots, injury to nerves or blood vessels, and joint stiffness. It is very rare not to heal if undertaken by experienced orthopaedic surgeons.
The long-term success really looks good, especially for those under 40 with early stage joint issues. Recent UK orthopaedic analysis shows that arthroscopy of the hip does have a role in improving pain and stability, function and is useful in helping to delay the onset of arthritis.
With that being said, it probably won’t be the best for someone who has advanced joint degeneration or severe osteoarthritis — where a hip replacement would be a more viable option.
Costs and NHS vs Private Treatment
Hip arthroscopy is provided in NHS practice but waiting times are long owing to high demand and prioritisation of more urgent patients.
Private treatment gives you faster access, you are seen by the surgeon treating you and you choose your surgeon and hospital. Costs are anywhere from about £3,500 to £8,000. This obviously depends on the complexity and where the hospital is. Insurance companies will often pay for this treatment, however it is advisable to check your policy in relation to cover, excess and pre-authorisation requirements.
Conclusion
Hip arthroscopy is a safe and minimally invasive approach to treating many disorders of the hip joint. With shortened recovery periods and high success rate, it provides for many a prompt return to a pain-free lifestyle.
If you’re experiencing chronic hip pain or diminished range of motion, schedule an evaluation with a board-certified orthopaedic specialist to discuss whether hip arthroscopy is the best course of action.
To discuss this treatment, please book an appointment with our specialists.
To learn more, please click on:
https://www.roh.nhs.uk/patient-information/hips/2-hip-arthroscopy/file
Brought to you by Chase Lodge Hospital
