Total hip arthroplasty

Abstract

Arthroscopy can be effectively performed in the presence of a total hip arthroplasty or resurfacing arthroplasty. A painful arthroplasty requires a thorough workup to evaluate for common causes such as loosening, infection, particulate debris from wear, or poorly matched or oriented components. Arthroscopy may be indicated in select circumstances for treatment and may have diagnostic value for some cases of unexplained pain. There are unique technical considerations because of the postsurgical environment and to protect the bearing surfaces. Iliopsoas impingement is another recognized source of pain following arthroplasty and is easily amenable to a less invasive arthroscopic approach. This chapter details the indications and technique with illustrative examples for performing arthroscopy in the presence of an arthroplasty.