What is it?

Hip arthroscopy is a form of keyhole surgery and is carried out through very small cuts using telescopic and handheld instruments.

Hip arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a range of hip conditions. With small incisions around the hip, this technique allows the surgeon to:

• Assess the joint surfaces and cartilage structures in the hip joint
• Remove loose fragments of bone or cartilage
• Repair damaged cartilage or tendons

You may need hip arthroscopy if you have the following:

• Hip pain in the absence of arthritis
• Persistent symptoms despite conservative management
• Typical symptoms of conditions such as impingement suspected by your physiotherapist

Diagnosis and treatment options

Your consultant will examine you to check how well your hip is working. They may ask you to demonstrate certain movements.

At your initial consultation, you may need diagnostic tests which will help your consultant decide what the most appropriate treatment option is for you. This will be fully discussed with you during your appointment.

You might need tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT and MRI scans.

Following hip arthroscopy patients will be booked for an overnight stay in hospital but occasionally they will be sent home the same day. They will spend approximately two weeks on crutches. Patients can return to driving around two weeks, when they feel able. Patients can return to impact activities such as tennis and skiing at four months post-operatively.