Hip arthroscopy, or "hip scope," is a minimally invasive procedure whereby an orthopedic surgeon examines the inside of the hip joint using an arthroscope. Arthroscopy is a small instrument used to diagnose and treat joint space problems through a small incision.

A small and flexible tube with a camera is inserted during the hip scope, allowing the scope and surgical tools access to the hip joint space. This procedure helps the surgeon determine the state of the existing cartilage and ligaments. It also assesses the presence of inflammation or bone spurs.

If hip pain does not respond to non-surgical treatments, doctors may recommend hip arthroscopy. Suitable candidates generally suffer from hip dysplasia, loose cartilage or bone bodies, FAI, snapping hip syndrome, labral tears, and labral tears.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain that fails to respond to non-surgical treatments like rest, pain medicine, physical therapy (PT), or anti-inflammatory injections or medications