Disorders of the Peritrochanteric and Deep Gluteal Space: New Frontiers for Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic techniques for the hip joint have evolved into endoscopic methods for extra-articular disorders. These endoscopic strategies provide a less invasive alternative to open procedures for traditionally recognized forms of pathology. Endoscopy has defined new disorders amenable to surgical correction and has redefined some of these existing disorders. The peritrochanteric and deep gluteal regions represent 2 of the most currently active areas of exploration. Peritrochanteric problems include trochanteric bursitis, full-thickness and partial-thickness tears of the abductors including the gluteus medius and minimus, and external coxa saltans (snapping iliotibial band). Deep gluteal disorders include piriformis syndrome, and other variations of deep gluteal syndrome, and ischiofemoral impingement. Each of these evolving areas is highlighted in this chapter.