HIP ARTHROSCOPY
WHAT IS HIP ARTHROSCOPY?
Hip arthroscopy, also known as a “hip scope,” is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure that has revolutionized the way complex hip conditions are treated. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and involves a few small incisions, a high-definition camera, and specialized instruments to work inside the hip joint. The surgeon inserts the small camera, called an arthroscope, and the video is projected to a nearby monitor to provide an interior view of the joint. Because the arthroscope and surgical instruments are thin, this allows for very small incisions rather than the larger incision needed for open surgery. Hip arthroscopy results in less pain for patients, less joint stiffness, and often shortens the time it takes to recover and return to favorite activities.
WHAT CONDITIONS DOES DR. WUSU TREAT WITH HIP ARTHROSCOPY?
Dr. Wusu may recommend an arthroscopic hip procedure if you have a painful condition that does not respond to conservative measures:
Hip labral tears
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
Cartilage damage
Abductor tears
Iliopsoas tendonitis
Trochanteric bursitis
IT band syndrome
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF HIP ARTHROSCOPY?
The classic symptoms of shoulder impingement are difficulty lifting the arm past shoulder height and reaching the arm behind the back. Other common symptoms include:
Weakness of the arm and shoulder
General stiffness and throbbing in the shoulder
Shoulder aching when at rest and increased pain with activity
Exacerbated pain with lying on the affected side
Pain or clicking when putting your hand behind your back or head
Without treatment, the tendons in the rotator cuff may wear down or tear, which can lead to worse pain, shoulder weakness, and difficulty lifting or using the shoulder at all
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF HIP ARTHROSCOPY?
The advantages of hip arthroscopy over the traditional open hip surgery include:
Smaller incisions
Minimal trauma to surrounding ligaments, muscles, and tissues
Less pain
Faster recovery
Lower infection rate
Less scarring
Earlier mobilization
Shorter hospital stay
Hip arthroscopy is a very technically demanding procedure, and your choice of surgeon will significantly impact your outcomes. Dr. Wusu is a leading specialist in the latest surgical techniques and minimally invasive treatment of hip conditions. Make an appointment with Dr. Wusu for a comprehensive consultation to diagnose your condition and to determine the best course of treatment.
