General hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that we do at the South Carolina Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center to diagnose and treat hip problems such as hip impingement, labral tears, and loose cartilage fragments.
Unlike open hip surgery, hip arthroscopy is a same-day surgery in which we use a camera (arthroscope) and tools to make repairs or to get a clear picture of what is wrong. Your surgeon may call it a hip scope since the procedure utilizes a fiberoptic camera. Typically, you will only be under general anesthesia for an hour or two. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, you’ll also be able to return home the same day as your surgery.
Because hip arthroscopy requires less anesthesia and only 2 or 3 very small 1/2 inch incisions, you will have less pain and scarring than an open hip surgery or hip replacement. Your risk of complications during or after surgery is much less. Additionally, your recovery time will be shorter, so you’ll be able to return to activities quickly. Most patients only require crutches for 2-4 weeks and can typically return to full activity in 2-4 months.
A hip scope may be used for:
If you are suffering from hip pain, have been in an accident, or want a second opinion about joint replacement, please schedule an appointment with a specialist at the South Carolina Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center today.
