Hip Preservation Unit | The London Clinic

EXPERT SUPPORT TEAMS

You will receive the very best possible care during and after your procedure from specialised support teams, including nurses and physiotherapists with dedicated experience of looking after patients undergoing the various types of hip preservation surgeries.

You will also have access to a full range of facilities to help with the diagnosis and rehabilitation of your condition that includes a hydrotherapy pool and gym on the same floor as the inpatient ward, and a state-of-the-art imaging department.

TREATING HIP PAIN

There are a number of conditions affecting the hip joint that can lead to pain. Most people recognize that osteoarthritis (degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone) affecting the hip joint is quite common and are familiar with the concept of hip replacement surgery to relieve the pain and improve function.

However, there are other conditions affecting the hip that can be painful, particularly in younger patients. It is important that these conditions are recognised early, as some may progress to cause damage to the hip joint and lead to the development of osteoarthritis and possibly a hip replacement.

COMMON CAUSES OF HIP PAIN

An abnormal impingement-type problem of the hip, where the joints don't fit together correctly and the hip bones rub against each other and cause damage (femoroacetabular impingement - FAI)
A shallow hip socket (acetabular dysplasia)

These types of conditions are often responsive to preservation treatments, which can reduce pain and the chance of the hip joint developing further damage.

TREATMENT OPTIONS AT THE HIP PRESERVATION UNIT

There are different technique and treatment options that can be offered, which can include:

Hip arthroscopy
Hip Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive way of being able to undertake surgery within the hip joint using only small incisions over the outside of the hip.
Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO)
Periacetabular osteotomy is a technique whereby the acetabulum (hip socket) is re-positioned to address certain abnormalities of the hip. This is a more significant undertaking, but can also be performed in a minimally invasive fashion.
Femoroacetabular impingement treatment
Femoroacetabular impingement can be treated using preventive measures to stop the underlying structural abnormalities in the hip joint causing osteoarthritis. There are several surgical treatment options that can reduce symptoms, depending on the source of the pain.