Hip Arthroscopy, Minimally-Invasive Keyhole Hip Surgery

In cases of femoroacetabular impingement and/or a labral tear, an arthroscopy may be performed if conservative treatment and physical therapy do not provide sufficient improvement. Arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) is a surgical procedure in which the torn labrum is repaired and/or the impingement between the femoral head and acetabulum is removed.

The arthroscopic procedures are performed by our specialist, Dr. Vandeputte, who specialises in treating young adults and elite athletes.

The following problems can be addressed with this procedure:

• Labral tears of the hip joint
• Femoroacetabular impingement of the hip (impingement between the femoral head and the acetabulum of the pelvis)
• Loose bodies or calcifications
• Cartilage flaps that become trapped during movement

Of these, labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement are the most common. During arthroscopy, excess bone is removed. During the same arthroscopic procedure, we also assess whether we can repair the labral tear. This can help prevent further cartilage wear.

CAM lesion with excess bone growth on the femoral neck.

The same femoral neck after removal of excess bone via arthroscopy.

• The patient is placed under general anaesthesia. If desired, this can also be done via a spinal block and local anaesthesia.
• Through 2-3 incisions (2 cm in size) around the hip, the surgeon can insert a camera (arthroscope) and other instruments (hooks or scissors) into the hip joint. For this, the hip is distracted. This creates sufficient space in the hip joint.
• The surgeon removes the impingement (the extra bone) and repairs the labrum (= the cartilaginous rim around the hip socket) if necessary. The keyhole surgery is performed as a day-case procedure and takes 45 minutes.
• The wounds are closed with a dressing. Sometimes sutures are used.

Our HipCloud application guides and monitors the pre- and postoperative trajectory.

• Rehabilitation is gradually increased over the first 4 weeks. Crutches are used for the first 2 to 4 weeks. In the case of extensive arthroscopy, full weight-bearing may sometimes be restricted for the first 4 weeks, with rehabilitation commencing only after 4 weeks.
• At the follow-up appointment after 4 weeks, rehabilitation is adjusted as needed. You can gradually resume daily activities.
• After 3 to 6 months: resumption of sports activities.

At the European Hip Center, we combine advanced surgical techniques with personalised care. HipCloud, our digital platform, plays an important role in this:

• Before surgery: preparation with education and guidance.
• After surgery: monitoring your recovery and support during rehabilitation.

This approach ensures a faster and safer recovery, tailored to your personal situation.