Hip Capsular Management in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement or Microinstability: A Systematic Review of Biomechanical Studies

Hip Capsular Management in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement or Microinstability: A Systematic Review of Biomechanical Studies

Authors

Jimenez AE, Owens JS, Shapira J, Saks BR, Ankem HK, Sabetian PW, Lall AC, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2021.04.004

Background

Hip microinstability is a condition where the hip joint moves too much, which can lead to pain and dysfunction. The hip capsule plays an important role in stabilizing the joint, and how it’s managed during surgery can affect recovery.

Methods

This study reviewed biomechanical research to understand how different hip capsule management techniques (repair, release, or reconstruction) affect the hip joint's stability and movement during surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) or microinstability.

Key Findings

Repair or reconstruction of the hip capsule after surgery helps restore joint stability and movement, while release of the capsule leads to more joint instability. Capsule repair and reconstruction are associated with better outcomes in terms of motion and joint stability.

Conclusions

Biomechanical evidence supports the idea that repairing or reconstructing the hip capsule after surgery is important for maintaining hip joint stability, particularly for patients with microinstability.

What Does This Mean for Patients

If you’re undergoing surgery for hip impingement or instability, it’s important to discuss with your surgeon the options for managing the hip capsule. Repairing or reconstructing the capsule may help you regain better function and stability in the long term.