Hip arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy can be effectively performed for numerous conditions. Three important principles must be thoroughly considered before performing the procedure, however. First, successful outcome is dependent on proper patient selection. A technically well-performed procedure will fail when done for the wrong reason, which can include failure of the procedure to meet patient expectations. Second, the patient must be properly positioned. Poor positioning will ensure a difficult procedure. Third, the surgeon must gain access to the hip joint in an atraumatic fashion. Because of the constrained architecture and dense soft-tissue envelope of the hip, the potential for inadvertent iatrogenic arthroscopy trauma is significant and, to some extent, unavoidable. Thus, the procedure must be performed as carefully as possible and for the right reason. Copyright 2006 by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.