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Arthroscopic bullet removal from the acetabulum (hip joint)
1Department of Surgery, Saudi Ministry of Higher Education, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Surgical Technique and Case Report
|June 7, 2013
Summary
Hip arthroscopy successfully removed a bullet from a hip joint after a gunshot wound. This minimally invasive technique avoided further tissue damage and complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Hip arthroscopy offers minimally invasive joint access compared to open arthrotomy.
- Arthroscopic techniques for hip disorders are continuously advancing.
Observation:
- A case involving arthroscopic bullet retrieval from the acetabulum after a low-velocity gunshot wound.
- The bullet traversed abdominal organs, including the small bowel, colon, and bladder, before lodging in the hip.
Findings:
- Arthroscopy enabled bullet removal from the hip joint using standard portals and a fracture table.
- This approach minimized soft tissue dissection, avoiding disruption of prior surgical sites.
- Adequate joint inspection, irrigation, and foreign body removal were achieved without invasive arthrotomy.
Implications:
- Arthroscopic bullet retrieval is a safe and effective alternative to open surgery for specific trauma cases.
- This technique minimizes morbidity and soft tissue disruption associated with traditional approaches.
- Experienced hip arthroscopists can utilize this method for similar complex trauma injuries.
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