EP1.11 The Learning Curve in Hip Arthroscopy with an Extracapsular Approach

Purpose: It is known that Hip Arthroscopy has a “steep” learning curve. Most of the studies performed on this matter have been on central compartment first technique. It is hypothesized that for the Extracapsular Approach in hip Arthroscopy, the learning curve would be faster for the unexperienced surgeon. Knowing the scientific advances in hip surgery and the recognition of hip pathologies in the area of preservation, the extracapsular approach has gained popularity. The aim is to present the total surgical time, outcomes, and complication rate using the extracapsular approach for hip arthroscopy

Methods: The surgical record of two hip surgeons with training in hip arthroscopy was analyzed; they were included from their first surgery with an extracapsular approach, evaluating the learning curve considering surgical time, post-surgical results, complications, evaluating them with the pre- and post-surgical modified Harris Hip Score scale.

Results: In total, 16 hips were included in this study. Averaged surgical time was 140 minutes for surgeon number 1, and 160 minutes for surgeon number 2. Outcomes measured by modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) were 45 pre operative on average, achieving an 85 pos operative score. Most common complications were numbness of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve territory.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the Extracapsular Approach for Hip arthroscopy is reproducible, and its learning curve is faster allowing good results for the unexperienced surgeon.