Hip arthroscopy, or arthroscopic hip surgery, is beneficial to many patients since it is an outpatient procedure and much less invasive than traditional hip surgery. Patients who undergo the procedure benefit from smaller incisions, an accelerated course of rehab, and an early return to sports activities.

The Beverly Hills orthopedic surgeons at La Peer’s Hip Surgery Center of Excellence are at the top of their field. Patients who opt to visit our world-renowned facilities receive an unparalleled quality of service and care. We formulate individualized treatment plans for patients with all different types of hip conditions, all of which incorporate the very latest innovations in arthroscopic hip procedures.

For more information, contact the Hip Surgery Center of Excellence at  (888) 760-3378.

During Arthroscopic Hip Surgery

Hip arthroscopy is a procedure involving small incisions around the patient’s hip area. A camera is inserted into the interior of the joint, and video is transmitted to a monitor that can be viewed in the operating room. As a result, arthroscopic surgery can also be used to diagnose injuries.

Hip-related problems that can be treated with arthroscopic surgery include, but are not limited, to the following:

• Labral tears
• Loose bodies
• Cartilage damage
• Arthritis

During the procedure, the leg must be put into traction. Essentially, the hip has to be pulled away from the socket far enough so that the surgeon can view the entire joint, insert instruments, and perform the necessary treatments. Once traction is applied, a small incision is made into the hip through which the arthroscope can be inserted. The surgeon then identifies any damage in the hip.

From this point forward, a range of arthroscopic hip procedures can be performed:

• Smoothing or repairing torn cartilage
• Trimming bone spurs
• Removing inflamed tissue

Hip Arthroscopy Recovery and Rehabilitation

After hip arthroscopy, patient recoveries will vary. Your surgeon will develop a rehabilitation plan based on your specific case. On average, patients are usually discharged from the recovery room within one to two hours. Someone else will need to drive them home. Patients could require the aid of crutches or even a walker for a period of up to two months following surgery.

Most of these arthroscopic procedures require physical therapy to help restore mobility and strength to the hip. Your doctor or a physical therapist will provide detailed guidelines about which types of movements and activities are acceptable and which are off limits during your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I need a physical examination 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. Your surgeon will also want to know if you are currently taking any medications, which you could be required to stop taking prior to surgery.

Q: Are there any complications from this type of hip surgery?

A: Though uncommon, 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.

Q: What kinds of rehabilitation exercises might I have to do after hip arthroscopy?

A: It will depend on the type of surgery you had. Common rehabilitation exercises include gentle progressive resistive exercises, increased range of motion exercises, gentle joint distraction techniques, and balance work.

Q: What are the long-term outcomes?

A: Though recovery is dependent upon the type and extent of damage in the hip, many people return to full and unrestricted activity. Some people may need to make lifestyle changes (such as avoiding high impact exercises) but most will return to full health after arthroscopic hip surgery.

Contact a Beverly Hills Orthopedic Hip Surgeon

The Hip Surgery Center of Excellence in Beverly Hills features some of the most renowned orthopedic surgeons in the country. We utilize the latest and most effective procedures when treating hip conditions. To schedule a consultation with one of our talented orthopedic surgeons, call  (888) 760-3378 or fill out our contact form.

Next, learn about arthritis.