Arthroscopy Techniques (Sep 2019)

Microfracture in Hip Arthroscopy. Keep It Simple!

  • David R. Maldonado, M.D.,
  • Jeffrey W. Chen, B.A.,
  • Ajay C. Lall, M.D., M.S.,
  • Cynthia Kyin, B.A.,
  • Rafael Walker-Santiago, M.D.,
  • Jacob Shapira, M.D.,
  • Philip J. Rosinsky, M.D.,
  • Benjamin G. Domb, M.D.

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8, no. 9
pp. e1063 – e1067

Abstract

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Despite all the advances in hip arthroscopy, microfracture is still the workhorse for treating focal and full-thickness cartilage lesions. The success of this treatment is owed to its reliability and simplicity. Given the structure of the hip joint, however, there are challenges to this procedure using a conventional microfracture pick. This note presents our current and preferred microfracture technique using a curve drill guide and flexible drill. This method offers greater range of access to different regions of the joint with ease, thus ensuring a reproducible and quicker procedure with less risk.