Name of the Procedure:

Arthrotomy, Hip, with Drainage (e.g., Infection)
Common name(s): Hip Arthrotomy, Hip Joint Drainage

Summary

Arthrotomy of the hip with drainage involves surgically opening the hip joint to remove fluid, pus, or other contaminants, usually to treat an infection. This procedure helps alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further joint damage.

Purpose

The procedure aims to:

• Address hip joint infections.
• Alleviate pain and swelling.
• Prevent further joint damage.
• Restore normal hip function.

Indications

• Severe hip pain.
• Swelling or redness around the hip.
• Signs of infection like fever or chills.
• Positive imaging studies suggesting fluid accumulation in the hip joint.
• Failure of non-surgical treatments like antibiotics.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications might need to be paused or adjusted.
• Pre-procedure imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs.
• Blood tests to check for infection markers or other underlying conditions.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned, and the surgical site is sterilized.
2. General or regional anesthesia is administered.
3. A surgical incision is made over the hip joint.
4. The joint capsule is carefully opened to access the hip joint.
5. Fluid or pus is drained, and samples may be taken for laboratory analysis.
6. The joint is irrigated to clean out any remaining contaminants.
7. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
8. A sterile dressing is applied.

Tools used include scalpels, retractors, irrigation systems, and suturing materials.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Surgical Nurse
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Technologist

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Joint stiffness
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling.
• Reduced risk of joint damage.
• Improved hip function.
• Early benefits often seen within a few days to weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry.
• Possible use of crutches or walkers initially.
• Physical therapy to restore joint movement and strength.
• Follow-up appointments for wound check and suture removal.
• Full recovery may take several weeks, with some restrictions on activity.

Alternatives

• Antibiotic therapy alone (less effective if significant fluid presence).
• Needle aspiration of the joint (minimally invasive, but may not resolve severe cases).
• Each alternative has its pros and cons, with surgical intervention often providing more definitive treatment.

Patient Experience

• Discomfort during initial recovery, managed with pain relief medications.
• Temporary limitations in hip movement.
• Gradual improvement in symptoms with adherence to post-operative care and physical therapy.
• Overall improved quality of life as infection resolves and joint function is restored.