Name of the Procedure:

Arthrotomy, hip (Hip joint arthrotomy)

Summary

Arthrotomy of the hip is a surgical procedure where an incision is made into the hip joint to explore, remove loose or foreign bodies, or repair damaged structures.

Purpose

The procedure addresses various hip joint problems, such as severe arthritis, infections, or the presence of loose or foreign bodies within the joint. The goal is to alleviate pain, restore joint function, and prevent further joint damage.

Indications

• Severe hip pain not relieved by non-surgical treatments
• Hip joint infections
• Presence of loose bone or cartilage pieces within the joint
• Diagnosis of joint conditions that require direct visualization

Preparation

• Fasting from midnight before the procedure
• Adjustment or discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners)
• Preoperative physical examination and medical history review
• Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess the joint

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under regional or general anesthesia.
2. A sterile field is prepared around the hip area.
3. The surgeon makes an incision over the hip joint.
4. Soft tissues are carefully separated to expose the joint capsule.
5. The joint capsule is opened to examine the joint.
6. Loose or foreign bodies are identified and removed.
7. Any necessary repairs to joint structures are conducted.
8. The joint capsule and surrounding tissues are closed in layers, and the incision is sutured.

Tools used include scalpels, retractors, forceps, and possibly an arthroscope for better visualization.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room nurses
• Surgical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Joint stiffness or loss of motion
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from pain
• Improved joint function and mobility
• Removal of problematic loose or foreign bodies
• Reduced risk of further joint damage

Recovery

• Postoperative pain management with medications
• Hospital stay for a few days, if necessary
• Physical therapy to restore movement and strength
• Avoidance of strenuous activities for a specified period
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring healing

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments (e.g., medication, physical therapy)
• Arthroscopy (a less invasive procedure)
• Hip replacement surgery for extensive joint damage

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. Postoperatively, they may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort, which can be managed with medication and rest. Physical therapy will help regain joint mobility and strength, leading to a gradual recovery over several weeks to months.