Arthroscopic approaches to the hip joint

The application of arthroscopic surgical techniques to the hip joint has gained increasing popularity in recent years. However, the particular anatomic features of this joint and surrounding tissue have made it arthroscopically inaccessible until recently. Complete arthroscopic examination of the hip requires at least 3 portals. Several major neurovascular structures in the vicinity of the joint can be injured during the establishment of these percutaneous portals. Therefore, a perfect knowledge of the anatomy of this particular area is necessary to establish stable and safe arthroscopic portals. This report examines the anatomy of the standard and nonstandard arthroscopic portals to approach the hip joint as well as the difficulties and complications related to them. © 2005 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc., Philadelphia.