Arthroscopic surgery for synovial chondromatosis of the hip joint

BACKGROUND: The hip joint is an essential anatomical and functional component of the human skeleton, providing support and mobility for the lower limbs. Hip joint disorders significantly impair quality of life. Hip joint diseases are a major concern in modern medicine, particularly considering the increased life expectancy and prevalence of degenerative conditions. Recent studies demonstrate that hip arthroscopy for chondromatosis and other joint pathologies provides favorable clinical outcomes, high patient satisfaction, and low recurrence rates.

AIM: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of hip arthroscopy in the treatment of synovial chondromatosis, including the development and implementation of a novel surgical technique, assessment of clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and recurrence rates, and analysis of postoperative rehabilitation.

METHODS: This was a single-center, prospective, interventional, controlled study. It included patients with synovial chondromatosis of the hip treated at the N.N. Priorov National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics between October 29, 2012, and July 25, 2024. Medical interventions included preoperative assessment (medical history, physical examination, MRI), surgical treatment (placement of a damper system on the hip joint, hip arthroscopy with removal of intra-articular loose bodies, coblation of affected capsular areas, and joint debridement), and personalized rehabilitation (exercise therapy to restore joint range of motion). The 12-year follow-up period enabled the assessment of both short- and long-term treatment outcomes. The primary endpoint was improved hip function and pain reduction. Assessment methods included pre- and postoperative clinical examinations, follow-up MRI, and assessment of joint mobility.

RESULTS: The study included 9 patients, all of whom completed follow-up. The mean age was 37 years. The findings demonstrated improved hip function, pain reduction, and absence of intra-articular loose bodies on follow-up MRI. Long-term follow-up allowed for the assessment of recurrence risk and confirmed the long-term efficacy and safety of the arthroscopic technique, contingent on adherence to postoperative recommendations and exercise therapy.

CONCLUSION: Arthroscopy was effective in the treatment of synovial chondromatosis, with favorable clinical outcomes, high patient satisfaction, and low recurrence rates.