Joining me this evening was Mr Iain Lennox, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Spire Hartswood Hospital. Mr Lennox specialises in surgery on the shoulder, hip, knee, ankle and foot, particularly arthroscopic surgery.

‘Key-hole’ hip surgery has advanced in recent years and now is more commonly used as an  intervention for some hip problems. Hip arthroscopy is a key-hole surgical technique allowing the inside of the joint to be visualised and any cartilage damage to be corrected. The cartilage rim of the socket may be torn and need trimming or repairing. Loose bodies can be removed and any irregularity in the shape of the femoral neck region can be smoothed off, reducing subsequent impingement. This may reduce the chances of subsequently developing osteoarthritis.

Hip arthroscopy is done as a day case procedure through three 1 cm incisions at the top of the leg.  Pain is usually not severe and wears off within a few days. It may take 2-3 months to return to full sport and running. Unless there is established osteoarthritis in the joint, the majority of patients make a full recovery.

If you are suffering from hippain and need some advice, call Spire Hartswood Hospital and make an appointment to see Mr Lennox or any or the other orthopaedic surgeons they have available. Just call 01277 266761 or visit the website www.spirehartswood.com to find out more.