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Arthroscopic Hip Surgery

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Arthroscopic hip surgery is a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat various hip joint conditions. Dr. Jonathan Gelber offers arthroscopic hip surgery as a last resort if all non-surgical options fail to yield the desired results. Unlike open surgery, arthroscopic surgery involves extremely small incisions, leading to reduced pain and shorter recovery times.

What Is Arthroscopic Hip Surgery?

Arthroscopic hip surgery is a cutting-edge medical procedure designed to address various hip joint problems, such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Dr. Gelber makes small incisions near the hip joint and inserts a thin, flexible camera called an arthroscope. This device provides a detailed view of the joint’s interior, enabling the surgeon to diagnose issues like hip impingement, labral tears, or loose cartilage. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon can repair or remove damaged tissue, promoting faster recovery and improved hip function.

Conditions That May Necessitate Arthroscopic Hip Surgery:

  • Hip impingement (femoroacetabular impingement)
  • Labral tears
  • Loose cartilage or bone fragments
  • Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
  • Hip joint infections
  • Hip joint osteoarthritis
  • Ligament or tendon tears in the hip
  • Hip dysplasia (developmental hip deformity)
  • Hip bursitis (inflammation of the bursa sac)
  • Sports-related hip injuries

Arthroscopic Hip Surgery Is a Last Resort

Dr. Gelber offers arthroscopic hip surgery as a last resort, only recommending it when absolutely necessary. He prefers conservative, non-surgical treatments like regenerative medicine (PRP and stem cell injections), viscosupplementation, cortisone injections, and integrative medicine. These minimally invasive techniques address the root cause of hip pain and stimulate natural tissue regeneration. Surgical intervention is only considered in severe cases or when all other options have been exhausted.

Arthroscopic Hip Surgery Is Only Considered If:

  • Conservative treatments have proven ineffective
  • Severe pain and functional limitations persist after other treatments
  • Diagnostic imaging confirms hip joint abnormalities that require surgical intervention
  • You have severe impingement, tears, or joint damage
  • Your overall health allows for surgery

Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition where abnormal bone growth in the hip joint causes friction, pain, and limited movement. Arthroscopy for FAI is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that corrects this issue. During the procedure, Dr. Gelber uses an arthroscope to access the hip joint, where he precisely removes excess bone or damaged tissues contributing to hip impingement. This technique relieves FAI symptoms while preserving the hip’s natural structure and function.

Signs Indicating You May Need Arthroscopy for FAI:

  • Persistent hip pain, often in the groin or side of the hip
  • Limited range of motion in the hip joint
  • Pain worsens with activity or prolonged sitting
  • Difficulty with everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs
  • Imaging tests reveal bone abnormalities in the hip joint
  • Previous treatments like physical therapy or medications have been ineffective

The Minimally Invasive Alternative to Open Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery for various joint problems, including the hip. Unlike open surgery, arthroscopy involves small incisions through which a thin, flexible camera and specialized instruments are inserted. This approach minimizes tissue damage, reduces scarring, and often results in shorter recovery times. Patients typically experience less post-operative pain, decreased risk of complications, and a quicker return to normal activities, including sports.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Hip Surgery:

  • Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
  • Reduced risk of infection and complications
  • Less postoperative pain and discomfort
  • Quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays
  • Enhanced visualization of the joint interior
  • Preservation of surrounding healthy tissue
  • Faster return to normal activities and daily life
  • Suitable for a wide range of hip conditions

The Recovery Process After Arthroscopic Surgery

After your arthroscopic hip surgery, you can expect some soreness and swelling around the incisions. You’ll gradually regain mobility through physical therapy and exercises prescribed by your healthcare team. Full recovery time varies, but most patients can return to daily activities within a few weeks. Please follow our post-operative instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and stay patient and diligent to ensure a successful and speedy recovery.

Arthroscopic Hip Surgery Aftercare Guidelines:

  • Follow Dr. Gelber’s post-operative instructions carefully
  • Keep incision sites clean and dry
  • Use prescribed pain medication as directed
  • Attend scheduled physical therapy sessions
  • Gradually increase weight-bearing activities
  • Avoid high-impact exercises initially
  • Use assistive devices (crutches, walker) as needed
  • Report any signs of infection or complications
  • Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Gelber
  • Stay patient and committed to the recovery process

Consult Dr. Gelber Today

Dr. Jonathan Gelber, our board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine, is dedicated to finding bespoke solutions. His goal is to help you regain an active lifestyle by providing personalized care and utilizing the latest techniques in orthopedic medicine. If you’re facing joint issues, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gelber to explore your options — he only recommends surgical intervention as a last resort.

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