Revision Hip Arthroscopy Specialist

What is a revision hip arthroscopy?

A revision hip arthroscopy is a surgical procedure used to correct or repair damage to the hip joint that was missed or caused due to a previous hip surgery or hip arthroscopy procedure. In some cases, prior surgeries may not successfully resolve your problem or they may cause trauma to the tissues in the area, leading to other issues over time. Sometimes, even when a prior surgery is performed for the correct reasons and with perfect technique, scar tissue adhesions may be a source of significant post-operative pain.

In some cases, progressive conditions — including scar tissue formation — may present the need for an additional surgery to reduce your discomfort and improve the function of your hip.

When is a revision hip arthroscopy needed?

Dr. Harris may recommend a revision hip arthroscopy if you experience any of the following problems:

• Persistent femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
• Insufficient correction of a hip issue leading to fracture or instability
• Capsule tear
• Iliofemoral ligament tear
• Failed labral tear repair
• Adhesions or scar tissue formation

In some cases, a prior surgery may not have been effective or appropriate. Dr. Harris always completes extensive exams and imaging before recommending a revision hip arthroscopy to address your diagnosis. He explains what to expect before, during, and after surgery to ensure you have the best experience and outcome possible.

What happens during a revision hip arthroscopy?

A revision hip arthroscopy is similar to a regular hip arthroscopy, though it may take up to three or four hours to complete, depending on the amount of revision that is needed. Once you are under anesthesia, Dr. Harris uses three or four small incisions in the skin over your hip.

Once the fiber-optic camera of the arthroscope is placed inside your hip joint, Dr. Harris visualizes the area and assesses the extent of revision needed for your procedure. He uses small surgical instruments to repair or reconstruct torn or damaged labrum cartilage, perfectly correctly the ball-and-socket joint shape (hip impingement; FAI femoroacetabular impingement), and repair or tighten a torn or stretched capsule for an optimal functional outcome.

The operation is normally an outpatient procedure, generally coming in and going home on the same day. Outpatient physical therapy usually begins within the first day or two following surgery. Afterward, you recover with active physical therapy for about three to six months before returning to your normal activities.

Dr. Harris is one of very few surgeons in the United States and the only surgeon in Houston to perform “postless” hip arthroscopy, which eliminates the risk of perineal pain, pudendal nerve injury, and a variety of other traction-related complications that are not uncommon during and after hip arthroscopy.

Dr. Harris performs over 300 arthroscopic hip surgeries per year and has performed over 1,500 in his career.

Once you’re home, Dr. Harris provides recovery recommendations and refers you for physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in your hip joint.

To learn if you’re a candidate for a revision hip arthroscopy, call the office or schedule online with Joshua D. Harris, MD.