Hip CAM/Pincer Debridement

A hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that includes creating 2-3 small incisions (roughly 0.5 inch each) around the hip joint. These small portals allow a camera to enter the joint for visualization of anatomic structures, as well as tools to repair any injured structures. The CAM lesion and subspine bony lesions are identified and with x-ray guidance, the areas of extra bone are debrided to eliminate the bony impingement. A diamond-tipped bur is used to carefully reshape the bone. The labrum is repaired by passing a nonabsorbable suture around the labrum and loading it into an anchor that is inserted into the rim of the acetabulum (socket). This securs and stabilizes the labrum against the rim of the bone, promoting an environment for the labrum to heal back to the bone. The incisions are closed and sterile dressings applied.

• This surgery is most often performed under general anesthesia with a spinal block, but can be performed with a spinal and sedation. Local anesthetic is also injected to help with pain control after surgery.
• This surgery can be done outpatient or inpatient, depending on the patient’s comfort level and assistance at home.
• Surgery typically lasts 2-3 hours.
• Patients will be provided crutches at a preop appointment before surgery and will need to bring these to surgery.
• The incisions will be closed with a layer of absorbable suture and a layer of non-absorbable suture with dressings that can usually be removed 2-3 days after surgery.
  
  

• Patients who have persistent pain and activity limitations despite more conservative treatment with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory pain medication
• Patients with minimal to no arthritis
• Patients are usually less than 60 years of age
• Patients who want to improve their quality of life and get back to sport or activities

Regaining full hip function typically takes 6 months after surgery. Patients are to be non-weightbearing for 2 weeks, which requires use of an assistive device such as crutches or a walker. At 2 weeks, patients can usually transition to full weightbearing, but it is recommended that they still use the crutches or walker for another 2 weeks to remind them not to twist or pivot on the operative leg. Twisting or pivoting while bearing weight with the foot on the ground is not recommended until 4 months after surgery. Physical therapy will start 2 weeks after surgery and will continue for 3-4 months. Physical therapists follow a protocol outlined by Dr. Faulkner to help regain range of motion and strength. Physical therapy and home exercises are a critical part of a patient’s outcome and quality of life after surgery. The patient should plan on being seen in clinic about every 6 weeks for 4-6 months after the surgery for close monitoring and to ensure any questions are answered.