Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a common hip condition where abnormal bone growth (bone spurs) develops around the femoral head or acetabulum, causing painful friction during movement. Over time, this can damage cartilage and labrum, leading to hip arthritis if untreated.
Femoroacetabular osteoplasty (FAI surgery) is a minimally invasive procedure to reshape these bones, restoring smooth hip motion. It’s often performed arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera-guided approach. This surgery not only relieves pain but also prevents further joint degeneration, making it a preferred option for active individuals.
With advancements in orthopedic techniques, FAI surgery has high success rates, especially when paired with proper rehabilitation. Whether you're an athlete or someone struggling with chronic hip pain, understanding this procedure can help you make informed decisions about your care.
FAI is classified into three main types based on bone abnormalities:
Each type affects the hip differently. Cam lesions often cause cartilage damage, while Pincer lesions lead to labral tears. Diagnosis via imaging (X-rays, MRI) helps surgeons tailor the osteoplasty technique—shaving bone spurs, repairing labral tears, or both.
Early intervention is key, as untreated FAI can accelerate osteoarthritis. Your surgeon will determine the best approach based on your specific anatomy and symptoms.
FAI symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam (impingement tests) and imaging:
Misdiagnosis is common (e.g., confused with muscle strains), so consulting a hip specialist is crucial. Early detection improves surgical outcomes and may delay or prevent arthritis.
FAI surgery is recommended when:
Contraindications include advanced osteoarthritis (may require hip replacement) or asymptomatic FAI found incidentally. Shared decision-making with your surgeon ensures the timing aligns with your lifestyle and goals.
Studies show early surgery preserves hip function better than delayed intervention. For athletes, returning to sport is often possible within 6–9 months post-op.
Preparation involves both physical and logistical steps:
On surgery day, avoid eating/drinking after midnight. Expect same-day discharge (outpatient procedure) unless complications arise. Bring loose clothing and a caregiver to assist you post-op.
Mental preparation is equally important—understanding the rehab timeline (often 4–6 months for full recovery) sets realistic expectations.
FAI surgery typically follows these steps:
The surgery lasts 2–3 hours. Surgeons often use traction to widen the joint space for better visibility. Advanced techniques like "labral preservation" improve long-term outcomes.
Most patients walk with crutches immediately post-op, progressing to full weight-bearing over 2–4 weeks.
Rehab is phased:
90% of patients report significant pain relief by 3 months. Full recovery takes 6–12 months for athletes. Avoid high-impact activities (running, jumping) until cleared.
Adherence to PT is critical—studies show it reduces re-injury risks by 40%.
While rare (<5% of cases), risks include:
Choosing an experienced surgeon reduces complication risks. Discuss your concerns pre-op—most issues are manageable with prompt care.
FAI surgery has an 85–90% success rate in:
Long-term studies show 80% patient satisfaction at 10-year follow-ups. Success hinges on proper patient selection, surgical precision, and rehab compliance.
If symptoms recur (e.g., due to new bone growth), revision surgery may be needed, though this is uncommon (<10% of cases).