Hip arthroscopy has been refined over the last few decades as smaller cameras have become available in the medical field. Arthroscopic procedures provide minimally invasive options for diagnosis and treatment of many hip conditions.

Dr. Daniel Gibbs is a dedicated orthopedic surgeon who focuses on the hip, knee, and shoulder. He has worked with countless athletes throughout his career and understands all of the conditions that can affect the functioning and comfort of the hip joint.

Conditions Treated by Arthroscopic Hip Surgery

Hip pain can be caused by an injury or the natural shape of your hip joint. Some conditions that may benefit from hip arthroscopy include:

• • Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), in which bone spurs form on the hip joint. This growth can inhibit movement and damage the cartilage in the hip joint.

• • Labral tears, which involve damage to the cartilage that cushions the joint. Tears can be related to FAI and other overuse injuries or trauma.

• • Removal of loose fragments of cartilage in the joint, usually caused by an injury like a labral tear

• Snapping or catching in the joint caused by a tendon that rubs across the bone during movement

Other forms of inflammation, pain, or infection can also be treated with hip arthroscopy. Early treatment of such conditions can prevent osteoarthritis or delay the need for surgical hip replacement.

What is Hip Arthroscopy?

During the procedure, one to five small incisions will be placed near the joint. Arthroscopes and other medical instruments are inserted to view and manipulate the internal structure of the hip including bone, cartilage, and ligaments. Dr. Gibbs can use the camera to identify and treat areas of concern without performing open surgery.

The length of the procedure will vary based on your condition and the necessary treatment.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Hip Surgery

Hip arthroscopy allows for the treatment of certain conditions that previously required open surgeries. Arthroscopic procedures only require a few small incisions, allowing for:

• • Shorter recovery time

• • Decreased risk of infection

• • Less pain or discomfort during recovery

• Reduced visible scarring

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and the risk of complications or infection is drastically reduced compared to more invasive procedures.

Recovery After Hip Surgery

Your recovery will vary based on the extent of your procedure. You can expect to use crutches for the first one to two weeks following your procedure. Pain and discomfort are usually mild and treatable with pain medication. Many patients will need physical therapy to rebuild their strength.

Some people may walk the next day while others may need to wait a few weeks to put their full weight on that leg and hip joint. Dr. Gibbs will provide personalized aftercare instructions and advice based on your specific condition.

Hip Arthroscopy with Dr. Daniel Gibbs

Dr. Daniel Gibbs focuses on the hip, knee, and shoulder and utilizes noninvasive or minimally invasive treatments whenever possible. He has years of experience in orthopedics, working directly with high-profile athletes and contributing numerous presentations, writings, and other publications to the field. His compassionate care and love for the community make him a valuable asset to our Heiden Orthopedics team.