Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), also known as hip impingement, is a mechanical or structural disorder of the hip. It can occur in people of all ages, including adolescents and young adults. In the healthy hip, the rounded top of thigh bone (femoral head) “plugs into” the hip socket (acetabular socket) in such a way that the femoral head can move smoothly within the socket. Occasionally, the femoral head and/or acetabulum may have an irregular shape due to overuse, or genetic or developmental abnormalities, and is called femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). When a femoroacetabular impingement is associated with the femoral head is called Cam impingement. In cases of a Cam impingement, a surgical procedure known as a femoroplasty is used.
What is a femoroplasty surgery?
Dr. Austin Chen performs the femoroplasty surgery using the minimally invasive arthroscopic technique. Using small incisions and a tiny camera, the damaged area is located. The femoral head irregularities are cut and removed, and the head is re-shaped. If necessary, the femur neck will also be re-contoured, and any damaged tissue will be repaired.
What is the recovery from femoroplasty surgery?
In many cases you will go home the same day after a femoroplasty. Crutches will be used for a period thereafter, where the duration will depend on your individual condition. Physical therapy will be advised in order to regain strength and mobility, allowing you to return to your normal physical activities. Physical therapy can be completed through the Boulder Centre for Orthopedics Physical Therapy Center, which offers all patients complete and seamless recovery care.
