Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed in only a few specialized centers across Germany. Through small incisions, an arthroscope is inserted into the joint to assess and treat all internal structures with the goal of preserving the natural joint.
This is currently the least invasive surgical option for the hip, but significantly more complex than arthroscopy of the knee or shoulder. The hip is the largest joint in the human body, and its deep location beneath thick muscle layers makes access technically demanding. For this reason, extensive anatomical knowledge and many years of experience in arthroscopic surgical techniques are essential.
We have been performing hip arthroscopies for over 16 years. With more than 200 procedures annually, Procelsio Clinic is one of the leading centers for this technique in Europe.
The most common reason for hip arthroscopy is groin pain originating from the joint, in cases where osteoarthritis has not yet fully developed. Accurate diagnosis is essential, as similar symptoms may be caused by other conditions such as spinal disorders, hernias, vascular issues, or gynecological diseases. Proper diagnosis requires not only imaging but also deep clinical expertise and a clear understanding of the limits and possibilities of hip arthroscopy in planning therapy.
Hip arthroscopy is primarily used to treat femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), either pincer-type or CAM-type. In these cases, deformities of the femoral head or the acetabulum lead to painful limitations in range of motion. If left untreated, these changes can cause labral tears and cartilage damage, potentially progressing to osteoarthritis of the joint.
The goal of the procedure is to restore joint function and prevent secondary damage, especially the development of osteoarthritis. Depending on the findings, a labral repair (labrum refixation) may be performed. In cases of cartilage damage up to a certain stage, autologous chondrocyte transplantation is the only option to preserve the joint. In cases of advanced osteoarthritis, however, arthroscopy is no longer a viable treatment. In such instances, total hip replacement remains the only effective option for relieving symptoms.
