This procedure is done in an outpatient facility and most patients will go home the same day. It is a considered a minimally invasive procedure because the incisions are very small and there is no overnight stays needed. Our orthopedic surgeon performs this procedure in our Tampa surgery center. A major benefit to this procedure being minimally invasive is that the recovery time is also very quick. The Hip Arthroscopy procedure also takes less than 90 minutes.
Hip Arthroscopy Diagnosis
In order to first determine if you can proceed with this surgery, the orthopedic surgeon needs to do an initial examination. This is done with a conducting a physical examination and reviewing imaging such as a MRI. After the imaging, health records, and examination is finished, the surgeon can then make the recommendation to either proceed with the surgery or continue conservative care.
Hip Arthroscopy Overview
A Hip Arthroscopy surgery uses a small surgical camera that is used in order for the surgeon to view inside the hip joints to see where damage is. Once the surgeon analyzes where the damage is in the joint, he will then proceed to use other minimally invasive surgical tools to remove the damaged areas. The orthopedic surgeon will look for damaged cartilage, bone spurs, or loose fragments inside the hip joint.
The Procedure
This procedure will be done under general anesthesia. Once you are asleep the surgeon will puncture three holes in your hip to insert the instruments necessary access your hip joint. After the surgeon see what is causing the issues in your hip joint, necessary tools will be used to repair the damaged areas. The holes punctured are smaller than a button hole so there will be minimal bleeding. This simple, yet effective way of fixing hip joint issues will make recovery times very quick. Many patients can go back to their normal activities without any restrictions after their hips have fully recovered.
End of Procedure
When the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed and the openings are bandaged. The patient will be observed for a short time and then discharged. The patient will require crutches or a walker while the joint heals. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength and mobility.
