Loose bodies of the hip can be treated with non-surgical and surgical methods depending on the size and location of the fragments. The goal of non-surgical treatment methods is pain control. Surgical treatment (hip arthroscopy) is recommended if non-surgical methods fail and the loose bodies are causing symptoms such as locking of the joint and limited range of motion.
Who Qualifies?
- Recommended if the loose bodies are causing symptoms such as locking of the joint and limited range of motion.
Hip Arthroscopy Procedure
(information derived from:https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/hip-arthroscopy-removing-loose-bodies)
- Given anesthesia
- Femur is gently distracted (pulled) from acetabulum to allow more space within the hip joint
- Small incisions called portals are made on the front and side of the hip
- Small surgical tools are inserted through the portals
- An arthroscope is a small, tube-shaped instrument with a camera on the end. Images from the arthroscope are portrayed on a screen, allowing the surgeon to see inside of the joint.
- Sterile fluid is injected to allow a clear view
- Once loose bodies are located, a grasper will be used to remove those bodies.
- If the loose bodies are too large, they will be broken into smaller pieces and then extracted through the portals.
- Portals are closed using surgical strips or sutures depending on the size of the incision and are covered with sterile bandages.
- Taken to recovery room for a 1-2 hours before being discharged
- Crutches will be necessary for a period of time depending on procedure
- Pain medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will be prescribed
- Several sessions of Physical Therapy for restoration of strength and range of motion.
Goal
- Provide patient with pain free range of motion.
Pros
- Minimally Invasive
- Quicker recovery period
- Less pain/stiffness
- Less scarring
- Ideal for athletes and those under the age of 55
- Most often an outpatient procedure
Cons
- Traction can stretch nerves causes temporary numbness
- Infection
- Blood clots in legs (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
- Anesthesia complications
