Simultaneous Bilateral Hip Arthroscopy

Abstract

Many patients are afflicted with painful conditions affecting both hips, most commonly femoroacetabular impingement. Some patients prefer the advantage of undergoing a single surgical procedure and anesthetic followed by a single postoperative rehabilitation program. We present a Technical Note on single-stage bilateral hip arthroscopy. This Technical Note reports on key steps enabling safe and efficient performance of bilateral arthroscopic acetabuloplasty, labral refixation, femoroplasty, and dynamic testing while limiting traction times and facilitating rapid transition to the second hip arthroscopic surgery. Enabling factors include supine positioning with bilateral mobile leg spars, rapid surgical and hip traction times, and postoperative rehabilitation with immediate weight bearing as tolerated. A rationale for deciding which hip should undergo arthroscopy first is also offered. Concurrent bilateral hip arthroscopy is a viable option for select patients and experienced surgical teams, enabling potentially expedited recovery and return to work or sport with inherent cost savings.