Hip arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery used to look inside the hip and treat selected problems.

Hip arthroscopy overview

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive keyhole surgery used to diagnose and treat problems in and around the hip joint. Conditions which can usually be treated by hip arthroscopy include labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement, loose fragments or snapping hip.

How is surgery carried out?

The procedure is usually performed as day-case surgery under general anaesthetic. The surgeon usually makes two to four small 1-2cm incisions for a camera and specialised instruments, then treats the damage identified inside the joint.

 

Are there any risks?

All surgery carries some risk. Possible complications include:

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Nerve or blood-vessel injury
  • Temporary numbness or soreness in the foot or thigh
  • Bruising, swelling or clicking
  • Persistent symptoms or the need for further surgery

Your surgeon will explain how these risks apply to you and the steps taken to reduce them.

 

Contact our appointments team
Hip arthroscopy overview

Recovery from hip arthroscopy

Early recovery

Phase 1

Manage pain and swelling, care for the small wounds and use crutches according to the procedure performed.

As movement improves

Phase 2

Work with your physiotherapist to restore hip movement, strength and normal walking.

Returning to full activity

Phase 3

Build towards work, driving and sport only when movement, control and comfort are safe. Timings depend on what was treated.

Working with hip professionals and teams

Our hip specialists support professional athletes, sports teams, active individuals and people whose work places high demands on their hips. Working closely with radiologists, physiotherapists and the wider multidisciplinary team, they provide coordinated care from diagnosis through to rehabilitation, helping each person return safely to sport, work or everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or recovery goals.

Working with hip professionals and teams

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

Hip arthroscopy FAQs

You can return to driving when you are no longer using medication that affects alertness, can control the vehicle safely and can perform an emergency stop comfortably. Check with your surgeon and motor insurer before you drive.

 

This depends on your operation, recovery and type of work. Desk-based work may be possible sooner than a role involving prolonged standing, walking, lifting or driving. Your care team will give you personalised advice.

 

Return gradually and only when your surgeon or physiotherapist is satisfied with your healing, movement, strength and control. The type of sport and the procedure you had will shape the timing.

 

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