Hip Arthroscopy Overview

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat a variety of hip disorders without making a large incision. Utilized for both athletes and active people suffering from persistent hip pain, this “keyhole surgery” uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized tools to visualize, repair, or remove damaged tissues inside the hip joint.

What Is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy involves inserting a thin camera and instruments through small cuts around the hip to inspect and treat problems such as:

• Torn labrum (cartilage)

• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)

• Loose cartilage or bone fragments

• Ligament injuries

• Hip joint infection or synovitis (inflammation)

By avoiding large incisions, hip arthroscopy typically causes less pain, less tissue trauma, and a faster recovery than open surgery.

Who Needs Hip Arthroscopy?

Typical candidates include people with:

• Persistent hip pain, clicking, or locking not improved by conservative therapy

• Cartilage or labral tears

• FAI (abnormal bone growth causing joint damage)

• Hip impingement limiting movement or causing “catching”

• Some unexplained hip symptoms after total hip replacement

The Surgical Procedure: Step by Step

1. Preparation: You are given anesthesia, and the hip is gently pulled (traction) to create space in the joint.

2. Insertion: Surgeons make small “buttonhole” punctures for the camera and tools.

3. Assessment & Treatment: The camera displays the inside of your hip on a monitor. Instruments can smooth cartilage, repair or remove torn tissue, or reshape bone.

4. Closure: After treatment, tools are removed and tiny incisions are closed. Most people go home the same day (outpatient surgery).

Recovery Timeline & Rehabilitation

• First Days: You’ll likely use crutches for 1–2 weeks to protect your hip. Mild-to-moderate pain, swelling, and bruising are common; ice and prescribed pain relief help manage these.

• Physical Therapy: Begins within days, focusing on gentle motion and preventing stiffness. Strength, balance, and functional training are gradually added over weeks.

• Work & Activity: Desk work may resume after 1–2 weeks, light activities in less than 6 weeks. Complete recovery—including return to exercise or sports—may take 2–4 months. Full rehabilitation from complex repairs could last longer.

• Long-Term Results: Over 70–80% of patients see reduced pain and improved function for years following successful surgery. Some people may not improve, especially if their hip already has advanced arthritis.

Risks and Potential Complications

• Infection (rare, <1%)

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

• Nerve or vessel injury (due to traction or instruments)

• Persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling

• Accelerated joint arthritis (in some cases)

• Temporary numbness or tingling near the surgical site

Discuss your risks with your surgeon based on health, procedure type, and goals.

Cost of Hip Arthroscopy

• Pricing depends on country, hospital, procedure complexity, and rehabilitation plans.

• For example, UK clinic pricing starts at £5,065 (hospital-only) or from £6,345 for complete packages.