It is a minimally invasive technique for treating hip joint problems and is done through 3 or 4 (depending on the lesions found) small 1 cm incisions. Through these incisions (ports) a camera and the working instruments are introduced. It is usually done under general anaesthesia and takes about 1h30 minutes to 2 hours.
It is an outpatient procedure (no need to stay in the hospital) and it is recommended to walk with 2 crutches for 7 to 10 days. During this period, you may carry assisted weight-bearing on the operated limb, unless otherwise indicated by the assistant doctor. The stitches are removed 2 weeks after the operation. They take analgesic medication, prevention of heterotopic calcifications (tablets) and thromboembolic prevention (1 injection a day) for 10 days.
The physiotherapy and rehabilitation programme begins during the first post-operative week. This is divided into two phases: the first phase of 6 weeks with a physiotherapist and the second phase of gym work which also lasts around 6 weeks. Between the 2nd and the 4th week of the operation, the patient is able to carry out their daily activities (for example driving). Between the 2nd and 3rd month after the operation, the patient starts running on a flat surface and returns to sports activities after the 3rd or 4th month after the operation, depending on the sports activity practised. In some specific cases, the return to competition may be indicated between the 4th or 5th month after the operation.
