Comparison of complications in X-ray versus ultrasound-guided hip arthroscopy.

Abstract

PURPOSE\nThe primary objective of this study was to report the complication rates and frequency of iatrogenic injury to the cartilage and labrum when using an ultrasound-guided hip arthroscopic technique compared to the standard X-ray-guided technique.\n\n\nMETHODS\nIn this retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data, intra-operative videos were evaluated for iatrogenic injury during portal establishment. Post-operative complications and revision procedures were monitored for 12 months.\n\n\nRESULTS\nFour hundred sixty patients were included in the study with 38% in the ultrasound cohort. Video review showed a 2% complication rate of femoral head scuffing and less than 2% labral injury in both techniques with no significant difference between techniques in cartilage injury (p=0.90) or labrum puncture (p=0.41). Six patients underwent revision procedures, two in the X-ray group and six in the ultrasound group. One patient developed a deep infection post-operatively. There were no other major complications.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nUltrasound-guided hip arthroscopy is a safe alternative to the standard X-ray-guided procedure in patients with a BMI less than 35.