Evidence brief
Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement
Hip arthroscopy effective for FAI with good outcomes
Labral repair superior to debridement
Cam and pincer lesions addressed simultaneously
Cartilage status affects prognosis
Return to sport possible in most athletes
Hip arthroscopy for FAI is effective when properly indicated. Labral preservation and repair are preferred over debridement. Cartilage damage at time of surgery affects long-term outcomes.
Know FAI types (cam, pincer, mixed) and imaging findings. Understand alpha angle, crossover sign. Surgical technique: labral repair > debridement, adequate cam resection. Poor prognostic signs: Tonnis 2+, joint space <2mm.
Philippon MJ et al. Outcomes following hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement with associated chondrolabral dysfunction. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2009;91(9):1120-1126.
Level III
Retrospective comparative study or case-control study