What Is Hip Arthroscopy? A Simple Guide for Patients

Hip pain can make everyday life feel exhausting—whether it’s walking across a parking lot, exercising, or simply getting up from a chair. For many people in North Carolina, physical therapy, injections, or rest can provide some relief. But when conservative treatments don’t solve the problem, surgery may be the next step.

The good news is that not all hip surgeries require large incisions or long hospital stays. Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that allows surgeons to diagnose and repair problems inside the hip joint with less pain and faster recovery.

If you’ve been told you may need hip surgery, hip arthroscopy could mean smaller incisions, shorter recovery, and less disruption to your life.

What Is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive hip surgery where surgeons insert a tiny camera (called an arthroscope) and small surgical tools through small incisions around the hip. The camera projects images onto a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint and repair damage without the need for a large cut.

This approach reduces trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues, which means quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, NC, hip arthroscopy is offered by physician referral. Our outpatient setting means most patients go home the very same day after their procedure.

AAOS explains more in-depth about what hip arthroscopy is and when it’s used.

Conditions Hip Arthroscopy Can Treat

Hip arthroscopy isn’t for everyone, but it can be very effective for patients with certain conditions, including:

• Labral tears: Cartilage damage around the hip socket that causes pain and clicking.
• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI): Abnormal bone growth that leads to pinching or stiffness.
• Loose cartilage or bone fragments inside the joint that interfere with movement.
• Hip dysplasia or structural issues (in some cases).
• Chronic hip pain that hasn’t improved with nonsurgical treatments.

See the orthopedic hip procedures performed at Prime Surgical Suites.

Benefits of Hip Arthroscopy

Patients who qualify for hip arthroscopy often experience significant advantages over traditional open procedures:

• Smaller incisions and less visible scarring.
• Reduced muscle and tissue damage, leading to faster recovery.
• Lower risk of infection thanks to the outpatient environment.
• Same-day discharge, so most patients recover in the comfort of their own home instead of staying overnight in a hospital.

Learn how our Granite Falls surgery center is designed for comfort and recovery.

Recovery: What Patients Can Expect

Recovery looks different for every patient, but most follow a similar timeline:

• Immediately after surgery: Patients typically use crutches for a short period to protect the hip as it heals.
• Physical therapy: Essential for regaining strength and mobility. Therapy usually starts soon after surgery and can last several weeks to months.
• Return to activities: Many patients are able to resume light daily activities within a few weeks, but a full recovery may take several months depending on the condition treated.

Worried and want to know more about recovery? Cleveland Clinic outlines typical recovery timelines and expectations and can be a very useful resource.

FAQs: Hip Arthroscopy at Prime

Is hip arthroscopy right for everyone?

No. Some severe hip conditions may still require open surgery. Your physician will determine whether you’re a candidate.

Do I need a referral for hip arthroscopy at Prime?

Yes. All procedures at Prime Surgical Suites are available only by physician referral.

How long will I need physical therapy?

It varies, but most patients continue therapy for several weeks to a few months depending on their condition and recovery goals.

A Less Invasive Path to Hip Relief

For patients dealing with persistent hip pain in North Carolina, hip arthroscopy offers a modern, minimally invasive solution. With smaller incisions, reduced risks, and same-day discharge, it provides an option that fits more comfortably into daily life.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, our focus is on safe, effective outpatient hip surgery that allows patients to return home the same day and begin recovery in familiar surroundings.

See the orthopedic hip procedures performed at Prime Surgical Suites or talk with your physician about whether a referral to Prime Surgical Suites for hip arthroscopy is the right next step for you.