Arthroscopy of the hip: 12 years of experience

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of and temporal trend s in hip arthroscopy by reviewing 413 procedures performed over a 12-year p eriod. The two anatomic areas of the hip can be examined separately, the pe riphery without distraction and the iliofemoral joint per se with distracti on. Combined use of both these techniques should be decided preoperatively. Technical explanations and a description of three clearly demarcated porta l site areas are given to improve standardization of the hip arthroscopy te chnique. Diagnostic use of hip arthroscopy (undiagnosed hip pain, catching, or popping of the joint) accounted for 68% of all procedures in our series , although this proportion declined over time. The main indication for oper ative hip arthroscopy was removal of loose bodies. Debridement is an import ant indication reported in the literature, but it was not performed in our patients. Numerous other operative procedures can be done but are indicated in smaller numbers of patients.