Patient Information
At the South African Society for Hip Arthroscopy (SASHA), we are dedicated to providing patients with clear, reliable information about hip health and preservation. Whether you’re experiencing hip pain or have been diagnosed with a hip condition, we’re here to help you understand your options and guide you toward the best possible care.
What Is Hip Preservation?
Hip preservation focuses on maintaining the natural hip joint, relieving pain, restoring mobility, and preventing or delaying the onset of osteoarthritis. By addressing issues early, patients can avoid more extensive treatments, such as hip replacements.
Depending on your condition, hip preservation procedures may use less invasive methods, like arthroscopy (keyhole surgery), or open surgery for more complex cases. The goal is always to treat existing problems while safeguarding the long-term health of your hip.
The Role of Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that allows surgeons to view and treat issues inside the hip joint. A small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted through tiny incisions, transmitting live images to a screen. This enables the surgeon to repair damaged tissue, remove debris, and address conditions like labral tears or cartilage damage.
Despite being minimally invasive, hip arthroscopy is a significant procedure performed under anesthesia and usually lasts one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the treatment.
Patient Information
Common Conditions Treated
Hip preservation methods can address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:
Hip Dysplasia (DDH)
Improper hip joint alignment, often present from birth.
Snapping Hip Syndrome
A snapping sensation when moving the hip caused by overused tendons or muscles.
Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
Reduced blood supply leading to bone damage in the hip joint.
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Abnormal bone growth causing hip pain and stiffness.
Labral Tears
Damage to the cartilage ring surrounding the hip socket.
Other conditions include instability, cartilage defects, Perthes disease, and greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS). With early diagnosis, most of these can be managed or treated effectively.
Patient Information
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Not all hip conditions require surgery. Your treatment plan may include:
– Activity modification or rest.
– Physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion.
– Prescription medications or injections, such as corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical methods don’t provide enough relief, surgery may be recommended. Options include:
– Hip Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive treatment for joint and soft tissue issues.
– Osteotomy: Correcting bone deformities to improve hip alignment.
– Soft Tissue Repairs: Treating damaged ligaments, tendons, or muscles.
– Joint Replacement: For advanced cases, replacing the joint with prosthetics (if preservation is no longer an option).
Education and Training
Advanced hip care requires skilled professionals who stay up to date with the latest developments. Orthopaedic surgeons and other specialists undergo years of training to provide safe and effective treatments. Many also join professional societies, like SASHA, where they engage in ongoing education and research to refine their expertise.
Find a Specialist
If you think you may benefit from hip preservation or rehabilitation, browse our directory to connect with trusted orthopaedic surgeons or physiotherapists who specialize in hip health. SASHA is proud to support a network of skilled professionals ready to help you on your recovery journey.
Your health matters, and the team at SASHA is committed to ensuring you have the knowledge and care needed to make informed decisions about your hip health. For more information or to find a specialist near you, feel free to reach out to us.