Femoroacetabular impingement: a review of current concepts

Femoroacetabular impingement is becoming an increasingly more common diagnosis in the orthopaedic community for hip pain in the younger population. Variations in the femoral head and acetabulum can lead to a sequelae of changes to the cartilage that can lead to osteoarthritis. Diagnosis is made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. Plain radiographs are a very useful tool for evaluating the bony anatomy, while CT scan and MRI have roles for surgical planning and more definitive diagnosis. Most patients should trial physical therapy prior to consideration for any arthroscopic or open procedures. Long-term outcome studies are being performed to determine if surgical intervention has any impact on quality of life and development of osteoarthritis.