Duke physicians offer hip arthroscopic surgery for patients suffering from hip pain related to labral tears, loose bodies, and small femur deformities (the ball of the hip joint that is at the top of the thigh bone) and the hip socket (acetabulum).

The conditions related to small deformities in the upper thigh bone and hip socket are referred to as femoral-acetabular impingement (FAI).

How Is Hip Arthroscopy Performed?

During arthroscopic hip repair, the patient is anesthetized and the damaged hip is pulled in a controlled way to separate the ball and socket in the hip joint. Through the separation of the joint, a doctor inserts a tiny camera through the separation via a small incision in the leg.

This camera, or "scope," allows the doctor to view the affected hip joint and make an accurate determination about treatment.

During the arthroscopic procedure, the surgeons can also insert other instruments into another small leg incision to perform necessary procedures like removing loose bodies or cartilage that has deteriorated. In patients with very early arthritis, doctors can use hip arthroscopy to remove the bone spurs that are causing the patient pain.

Most hip arthroscopy procedures will require two or three small incisions. In some circumstances, a slightly larger incision may be necessary. Your doctor will discuss this with you pre-operatively if this is necessary.

The window of opportunity to perform this procedure is limited, as the medical conditions that cause hip pain will lead to arthritis in many cases if left untreated for a prolonged time. Our physicians evaluate each patient’s individual circumstance to determine if he or she is an ideal candidate for this procedure.

Benefits of Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is an excellent solution for relieving hip pain. The procedure is an outpatient procedure that requires small leg incisions and promotes accelerated rehabilitation.

For patients younger than 40 who have good cartilage and healthy joints, it is a great solution for treating hip pain in a minimally invasive manner.

For select patients over age 40 who have the preservation of articular cartilage, arthroscopy can provide significant relief for the specific conditions.

Our orthopaedic doctors have extensive experience using hip arthroscopy to relieve hip pain and aid hip mobility. We have the necessary diagnostic tools, surgical technique, and expertise to ensure a quick return to normal hip use.

Appointments with Duke Hip Specialists

Call 888-ASK-DUKE (888-275-3853) to make an appointment with a Duke orthopaedic doctor in Durham, Raleigh, or Cary, North Carolina.

Physicians

Physicians offering hip arthroscopic surgery include:

• Mather, Richard C. III
  • Orthopaedics
• Olson, Steven A.
  • Orthopaedics

Locations

Hip arthroscopic surgery is available at locations throughout North Carolina, including:

• Duke Orthopaedics at North Duke Street
  3116 North Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
• Duke Orthopaedics at Page Road
  4709 Creekstone Drive, Durham, NC 27703
• North Carolina Orthopaedic Clinic
  3609 Southwest Durham Drive, Durham, NC 27707