Hip arthroscopy is a relatively new surgical procedure. It involves placing a small camera into the hip joint in order to visualize possible causes of pain. Usually 1 or 2 more additional 'portals' are needed to place instruments into the joint to repair the damaged structures. Until recently most causes of hip pain have gone undiagnosed. Limitations in both our knowledge and with imaging studies such as MRIs made it very difficult for doctors to help patients in pain. There are now a number of problems in the hip that can be treated that can be treated with this procedure. These include labral tears, loose bodies, cartilage damage, arthritis and infections. Hip arthroscopy is similar to arthroscopic surgery in the more common locations such as the shoulder and knee. It is performed as an outpatient/same day procedure in a hospital or surgery center. Surgery takes between 1 to 2 hours depending on the extent of damage. Most patients are able to bear full weight immediately after surgery with the aid of crutches. Rehabilitation may be started within a week with complete recovery taking between 6 to 12 weeks. Even though hip arthroscopy has been performed for almost two decades, relatively few orthopedic surgeons are trained in the technique. Dr. Mark Lawler is one of the few Bay Area surgeons who performs this procedure on a regular basis.
For more information: www.marinorthopedics.com