March 17, 2025 Author : Paulo Rego Hip preservation surgery is a group of innovative minimally invasive surgical techniques that aim to treat several hip pathologies, while maintaining joint integrity and without placing a prosthesis. These surgical techniques were developed to improve hip joint function and quality of life, solving problems that cause pain and limitations in both daily and sports activities. They are only indicated for patients under 45-50 years of age. Intra-articular hip pain: how does it manifest? Intra-articular hip pain refers to discomfort or pain that originates within the joint. It is usually described as deep and intense and is almost always located in the groin . It may get worse with activities such as walking, running, or sitting for a long time. It can also be exacerbated by certain movements, making daily activities difficult and significantly affecting the quality of life. Stiffness may also be present, as well as a reduced range of motion, and a feeling of hip instability. Pain in the hip region with other causes Pain in the buttock region, or below it, is rarely related to intra-articular problems of the hip. When there is posterior pain, care from a spinal pathology specialist or a physiatrist should be sought. Pain felt on the side of the hip is also not usually related to joint problems. When there is side pain that worsens at night and when lying on your side, care from a physiatrist should be sought. Pathologies that can be treated with hip preservation surgery Several hip pathologies can be effectively treated with hip preservation surgery, for example: Femoroacetabular impingement In femoroacetabular impingement an abnormal bone growth of the femoral head occurs causing pain and limiting mobility. It can give rise to labrum injuries and cartilage damage that if left untreated are probably the most common cause of joint wear in young patients. Developmental dysplasia of the hip In developmental dysplasia there is hip instability due to lack of containment of the femoral head. When left untreated this is one of the common causes of premature joint wear. What is hip preservation surgery? Hip preservation surgery encompasses several surgical techniques that restore hip natural anatomy correcting deformities. The main techniques are: Arthroscopic surgery Arthroscopic surgery is a non-invasive procedure where an arthroscope (an instrument with a video camera) is used to visualize the joint repair performed with other motorized surgical instruments. It is often used to repair labrum and cartilage injuries. Surgical dislocation Surgical dislocation allows direct access to the hip joint, minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues. It is often indicated for complex cases that require extensive repair associated with other extra-articular corrections. Bernese periacetabular osteotomy With this surgical procedure the acetabulum (hip socket) is reoriented to improve joint stability, reduce pain and prevent osteoarthritis development. Who is hip preservation surgery indicated for In most cases, hip preservation surgery procedures are intended for young patients, aged 10 to 45-50 years , with hip pain of intra-articular origin due to femoroacetabular impingement and developmental dysplasia. In older patients, this type of surgery is only recommended in exceptional cases, because the result is not so good, and complication rate is higher. Hip preservation surgery is a promising alternative for young patients suffering from hip joint pathologies, allowing them to regain function and improve their quality of life while preserving their natural hip anatomy. At Hospital da Luz there is a specific consultation dedicated to hip preservation surgery and to quickly and effectively identify patients who have indication to perform it. Meet the orthopedics clinial team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
