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Hip Arthroscopy - Procedure, Success Rate, Recovery Time

Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Hip Arthroscopy

Treatment Duration

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60 Minutes

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90 Minutes

Treatment Cost

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45,000

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2,00,000

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Hip Arthroscopy
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna Written by Sangeeta Sharma

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According to a study by Arriaza et al., 2024, the prevalence of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) ranges from 10% to 15% in the general adult population. The incidence is even higher among professional or top-level football players. Hip arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery for addressing this condition and treating various other hip problems. 

In cases of persistent hip pain and limited mobility, hip arthroscopy treatment offers a promising solution. This procedure is renowned for its precision and minimal recovery downtime. Continue reading to know more about the benefits, risks, and recovery process of this surgery. 

Procedure Name 

Hip Arthroscopy 

Alternative Name 

Hip scope 

Conditions Treated 

Femoroacetabular impingement, labral or tendon tears, dysplasia 

Benefits of the Procedure 

Less trauma, faster recovery, outpatient procedure

Treated By 

Orthopaedic surgeon 

You can check Hip Arthroscopy Cost here.

What is hip arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive method for diagnosing and treating various hip problems. It is particularly beneficial for treating joint issues such as femoroacetabular impingement, labral tears, and loose cartilage. The procedure provides relief from pain and improves joint function.

Anatomy and Physiology of the Hip

The hip is a vital joint in the human body. It functions as a ball-and-socket joint where the thigh bone (femur) meets the hip bone (pelvis). 

The joint is responsible for a range of functions, which include: 

  1. Balance and support to the upper body 

  2. Movement of the upper leg

  3. Weight-bearing

The anatomy of the hip is as follows: 

  1. Head and Socket: The head of the femur (ball) fits into the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis. 

  2. Articular Cartilage: Slippery tissue covering the femoral head and acetabulum, facilitating smooth, frictionless movement.

  3. Labrum: A ring of fibrocartilage that fills the space around the socket and enhances the stability of the joint. 

  4. Ligaments: Bands of tissue forming a capsule around the joint, holding it together securely.

  5. Synovium: Thin membrane lining the inside of the capsule, producing lubricating synovial fluid.

Need for Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a suitable procedure for individuals experiencing hip pain. It is particularly beneficial for those not responding well to non-surgical treatment methods like physical therapy and medications. Doctors generally recommend the procedure for younger patients who do not require a hip replacement. 

Hip joint surgery is used for several conditions. Some common diseases that can be treated with this procedure include: 

  1. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI): It is also known as hip impingement. In this condition, the ball and socket joint do not fit together properly due to their irregular shape. The thigh and hip bones rub against each other, causing pain and limiting movement. 

  2. Labrum Tears: These are injuries to the labrum that can be caused by trauma or degenerative issues. 

  3. Loose Bodies: Small, broken fragments of bone or cartilage in the joint can cause pain. 

  4. Tendon Tears: Tendons are fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. These can tear away from the bones in the hip during an injury. 

  5. Hip Dysplasia: The hip socket is too shallow to cover the femoral head completely. 

  6. Synovitis: It is the inflammation of the synovium (a thin membrane that lines the inside of the joint). 

  7. Osteophytes: These are bone spurs that develop on the ends of bones. They affect the ability of the joint to move smoothly. 

The procedure is not recommended for those with osteoarthritis

Hip Arthroscopy Procedure

Hip arthroscopy is performed under general or regional (spinal or epidural) anaesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure. It takes about 90 minutes to complete and involves the following steps: 

  1. The surgeon makes two or three small incisions (the size of a buttonhole) around the hip.

  2. Through one of these cuts, they insert the arthroscope, which has a small camera attached to it. This camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the hip joint.

  3. Specialised instruments are inserted through other portals to repair the joint. Common procedures include repairing a torn labrum, removing loose bodies, fixing damaged cartilage, etc.

  4. After the joint is repaired, the arthroscope and instruments are removed. The incisions are closed with sutures.

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Before and on the Day of Hip Arthroscopy

Patients are given detailed instructions by their orthopaedic surgeon on how to prepare for hip arthroscopy. Adhering to these guidelines both before and on the day of the procedure is essential for ensuring a smooth surgical experience.

Before Hip Arthroscopy 

Preparation for hip surgery begins two weeks before the operation. If the patient smokes, their provider will ask them to quit, as smoking can delay healing. Some other guidelines before the procedure are as follows: 

Parameters 

Pre-requisites 

Pre-op Assessments 

  1. Physical exam 

  2. Imaging tests, including X-ray, CT scan, and MRI

Risk Evaluation 

  1. Allergies 

  2. Surgery benefits vs risks 

Restrictions 

Blood-thinning medications two weeks before surgery 

Anaesthesia Selection 

General or regional 

Fasting 

6 to 12 hours before the procedure 

  

On the Day of Hip Arthroscopy 

On the day of the procedure, patients arrive at the hospital early to complete last-minute health assessments. Once admitted, they undergo preparations for surgery, which include the following steps:

Parameters 

Pre-requisites 

Consent 

Mandatory 

Physical Evaluation 

Vitals check-up (temperature, blood pressure, breathing, etc.)

Surgical Preparation 

Marking the skin where incisions will be made 

IV Line

Yes

Patient Positioning

Supine or lateral with the leg attached to a special positioning device 

After Hip Arthroscopy and Recovery

Hip scope recovery is generally quick, with most patients experiencing healing within six weeks. However, the exact duration can vary between individuals depending on their health and need for surgery. 

In Hospital Recovery 

Hip arthroscopy is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. This means that patients can return home on the same day of the surgery. They may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 hours before discharge. During this time, one can expect the following: 

  1. The patient is transferred to the recovery room, where the anaesthesiologist monitors the effect of anaesthesia. 

  2. The nursing staff checks the individual’s vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen. 

  3. Pain medications are given to manage post-operative discomfort. 

At-home Recovery 

Patients can expect to resume work within one to two weeks after surgery. It is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery after the procedure. These include: 

  1. Keep the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection. 

  2. Take prescribed medications to manage pain.  

  3. Ice and elevate the hip to reduce swelling. 

  4. Wear a brace on the hip for three weeks. 

  5. Use crutches for two to six weeks. 

  6. Do not put any weight on the affected hip for a week. 

  7. Refrain from heavy exercise or sports for 12 weeks. 

  8. Perform physical therapy exercises to regain mobility and strength. 

First Follow-up Appointment

The first follow-up appointment is scheduled seven to ten days after the procedure. During this visit, the doctor removes sutures. They also perform X-ray or other imaging studies to assess recovery of the hip joint. 

Benefits of Hip Arthroscopy

It is a minimally invasive technique that offers various benefits for people with hip joint problems. The hip arthroscopy success rate is generally high, reflecting the effectiveness of the operation. Some other advantages over the traditional approach include: 

  1. Less tissue damage, scarring, and hip pain.

  2. Shorter recovery time.

  3. Performed as an outpatient procedure (individuals return home on the same day of the surgery).

  4. Lower risk of complications than invasive methods.

  5. Postpones or eliminates the need for hip replacement surgery by treating conditions that cause osteoarthritis.

Risks and Complications of Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is generally a safe procedure with fewer complications than more invasive procedures. However, like any surgical intervention, it has some risks, which include the following: 

  1. Infection 

  2. Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)

  3. Bleeding in the joint 

  4. Temporary nerve damage (causing numbness, tingling, or pain)

  5. Damage to the cartilage, bone, labrum, or other tissues 

  6. Instability of the hip 

When to consult a doctor?

After undergoing hip arthroscopy, it is important to know when to consult a doctor to address potential complications or monitor recovery. The following are specific situations that warrant a need for medical attention post-procedure: 

  1. Increased pain 

  2. Bleeding at the incision site 

  3. Nausea and vomiting 

  4. Infection signs like discolouration at the surgical site of fever exceeding 101℉

Risks of Delaying Hip Arthroscopy

Delaying hip arthroscopy can lead to several potential complications, especially if underlying conditions are left untreated. Below are some risks associated with postponing the procedure:

  1. Progression of Damage: Conditions such as labral tears or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) can worsen over time. Delaying surgery can lead to more extensive damage that may become harder to repair and might require more invasive surgery later.

  2. Degenerative Changes: As the condition progresses, it can escalate to osteoarthritis. This can cause increased pain and affect long-term mobility. 

Cost of Hip Arthroscopy 

The hip surgery cost in India can vary from one person to another based on various factors. The price ranges between ₹ 45,000 and ₹ 2,00,000. The average expense of the procedure is ₹ 1,30,000.  

Procedure Name 

Estimated Cost Range 

Hip Arthroscopy 

₹ 45,000 to ₹ 2,00,000

Note: The figures mentioned above are approximate. For accurate pricing details, patients are advised to consult HexaHealth experts. 

Factors that affect the expenses of surgery include: 

  1. Hospital: The type of healthcare facility where the procedure is performed can impact costs. Private hospitals tend to have higher costs than government centres.

  2. Surgeon’s Expertise: Medical experts with specialised training and extensive experience may charge more for their services.

  3. Location: The geographical region of the hospital where the procedure is performed can affect prices due to variations in the cost of living. 

  4. Diagnostic Imaging: Pre-operative testing, such as MRI or CT scans, assesses the condition of the hip joint. The cost of these assessments can contribute to the overall expense. 

  5. Post-operative Care: Expenditures related to medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments can increase the final bill for hip arthroscopy.

Takeaway

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure with the potential to diagnose and treat various hip joint conditions effectively. It offers patients relief from pain, improved mobility, and the possibility of avoiding more invasive surgeries like hip replacements.

If you or your loved ones are considering hip arthroscopy treatment, choosing HexaHealth can be the right choice. We connect you with top orthopaedic surgeons for the procedure. Our team helps you achieve the best results with minimal discomfort and downtime. Contact us today! 

Suggested Reads

Hip Fracture
Osteoarthritis Hip
Hip Pain Exercises
Total Hip Replacement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Hip arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that utilises a small camera called an arthroscope to view and repair the inside of the hip joint. This technique allows surgeons to diagnose and treat various hip problems without making large incisions. 

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Being a keyhole surgery, hip arthroscopy treatment offers several benefits compared to other hip procedures. These include the following: 

  1. Less post-operative pain 

  2. Quicker recovery time 

  3. Smaller scars 

  4. Lower risk of complications 

  5. Outpatient procedure

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Hip arthroscopy is performed under general or regional anaesthesia by an orthopaedic surgeon. It involves the following steps: 

  1. Making small incisions around the hip

  2. Inserting a camera called an arthroscope to visualise the joint

  3. Using specialised instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue

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Yes, hip joint surgery is covered under insurance. However, coverage can differ depending on the specific policy. Patients should consult HexaHealth experts to understand the details of their plan.

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The hip surgery cost can vary widely, generally ranging from ₹ 45,000 to ₹ 2,00,000. It depends on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the facility. HexaHealth consultants can provide up-to-date pricing information based on an individual’s situation.

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Hip arthroscopy is generally considered a safe procedure due to its minimally invasive nature. However, like any other surgery, it carries certain risks, including: 

  1. Infection 

  2. Nerve damage 

  3. Blood clots 

  4. Bone, cartilage, or labrum damage

  5. Complications from anaesthesia

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The expected recovery time after hip arthroscopy is six weeks. Patients can resume work within 1-2 weeks after the procedure. However, the exact duration depends on the patient’s health and the need for the surgery. 

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Hip scope recovery involves rest, followed by physical therapy. Patients can expect the following during recovery: 

  1. Take pain medications prescribed by the doctor 

  2. Avoid placing any weight on the affected hip for the first week 

  3. Wear a hip brace for three weeks 

  4. Use crutches for two to six weeks   

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Most individuals can resume normal activities within one to two weeks after hip arthroscopy, depending on their rate of recovery. Return to sports or strenuous activities may take up to 12 weeks.

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Hip arthroscopy success rate can differ based on the patient’s health and the condition being treated. According to a study by Youm et al., 2016, the overall success rate of the procedure in treating femoroacetabular impingement is 81.1%. 

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After hip arthroscopy, a physical therapist will recommend specific exercises to ensure safe and effective rehabilitation. Some of these exercises may include: 

  1. Ankle pumps 

  2. Quad sets 

  3. Glute sets 

  4. Heel digs

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Hip arthroscopy is generally considered safe but carries risks like any surgery. These include infection, nerve damage, blood clots, and potential complications related to the anaesthesia.

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Post-operative care after hip arthroscopy is important to ensure a successful recovery. Patients should avoid the following after the procedure: 

  1. High-impact activities 

  2. Placing too much weight on the hip 

  3. Bathing until the doctor approves (sponge bath)

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After hip surgery, patients should sleep on their back for 1-2 weeks. Their heels should be raised in an inclined position on a pile of pillows. Avoid sleeping on the operated side to prevent pressure on the hip.

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References

All the articles on HexaHealth are supported by verified medically-recognized sources such as; peer-reviewed academic research papers, research institutions, and medical journals. Our medical reviewers also check references of the articles to prioritize accuracy and relevance. Refer to our detailed editorial policy for more information.


  1. Arriaza R, Saavedra-García M, Arriaza A, Cruz-Cámara A, Leyes M, Cerezal L, et al. Prevalence of hip femoroacetabular impingement deformities in high-level (La Liga) male professional football players. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2024 Feb 21;25(1).link
  2. Cleveland Clinic. Hip Joint: Anatomy & How It Works [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2023.link
  3. Hip Arthroscopy - OrthoInfo - AAOS [Internet]. Aaos.org. 2016.link
  4. Hip Arthroscopy [Internet]. www.hopkinsmedicine.org. 2022. link
  5. Hip arthroscopy: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. medlineplus.gov. [cited 2024 May 4]. link
  6. Hip Arthroscopy: What It Is, Procedure, and Recovery [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic.link
  7. Hip Arthroscopy: A Minimally Invasive Hip Scope Procedure [Internet]. Hospital for Special Surgery.link
  8. Stubbs AJ, Beck EC, Howse EA, Koulopoulos M. Hip Arthroscopy: Supine Approach to Patient Positioning, Setup, and Traction. Springer eBooks. 2022 Jan 1;247–55.link
  9. Mehta MP, Hoffer-Hawlik MA, O’Connor M, Lynch TS. Immediate Versus Delayed Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement: An Expected Value Decision Analysis. JAAOS Global Research & Reviews [Internet]. 2020 Dec 1 [cited 2023 Mar 23];4(12):e20.00206. link
  10. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) | Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2019.link
  11. Hip Arthroscopy Recovery | University of Utah Health [Internet]. healthcare.utah.edu. 2021 [cited 2024 May 4]. link

Last Updated on: 6 May 2024

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and learning purposes only. It doesn't cover every medical condition and might not be relevant to your personal situation. This information isn't medical advice, isn't meant for diagnosing any condition, and shouldn't replace talking to a certified medical or healthcare professional.

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

Author

Sangeeta Sharma

Sangeeta Sharma

BSc. Biochemistry I MSc. Biochemistry (Oxford College Bangalore)

6 Years Experience

She has extensive experience in content and regulatory writing with reputed organisations like Sun Pharmaceuticals and Innodata. Skilled in SEO and passionate about creating informative and engaging medical conten...View More

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