Endoscopic Hip Tendon Repair
What are Hip Tendon Tears & Injuries?
There are various muscles and tendons that make up your hip joint, making it one of the most stable joints in the body. Tendons are tissues that connect muscle to bone and ensure proper movement of the joint. If damaged or irritated, they can cause significant pain and loss of mobility in the hip.
Tendon Tears
- Gluteus medius tendon tears: The gluteus medius tendon attaches the gluteus medius to your femur (leg bone), specifically in a region of the femur called the greater trochanter. A tear can occur that removes the tendon from its attachment on the bone.
- Hamstring tendon tears: A proximal hamstring injury can occur, where the hamstring muscles are no longer connected with the pelvic bone.
Overuse Tendon Injuries
- Iliotibial band syndrome: The Iliotibial (IT) band is a tendon that runs on the outer portion of your leg. The IT band can become irritated and cause pain when performing repetitive motions, which is called IT band syndrome.
- Snapping hip syndrome: Internal snapping hip syndrome, also known as iliopsoas impingement, is a condition where the tendon of hip flexor muscle (iliopsoas) repeatedly slides over the front of the hip and becomes irritated.
What is Endoscopic Repair?
An endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, where a small tube with a camera on it is inserted near the injured area of the hip. Endoscopy procedures can be used to repair torn or damaged tendons, as well as to treat tendons that are irritated from overuse injuries.
In the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will insert the endoscope into the injured area and will be able to see the extent of the tear or injury. In the situation of a torn tendon, like a gluteus medius or hamstring tear, your surgeon will reattach the tendon to the bone and restore the function of the tendon. In the situation of overuse-related irritation, such as IT band syndrome or iliopsoas impingement, your surgeon may perform a release or lengthening procedure to reduce irritation and compression on the tendon.
Post-Operative Care
Your surgeon and care team will provide you with extensive post operative instructions, which may vary depending on the location of your injury and type of procedure performed. Some post operative care that your provide may advise you on can include taking pain medications as instructed, stopping smoking, avoiding certain movements, and using walking assisting devices.