Comparison of Complications in X-Ray Versus Ultrasound-Guided Hip Arthroscopy

To report the complication rates and frequency of iatrogenic injury to the cartilage and labrum when using an ultrasound-guided hip arthroscopic technique compared with the standard x-ray-guided technique.

In this retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data, intraoperative videos were evaluated for iatrogenic injury during portal establishment. Postoperative complications and revision procedures were monitored for 12 months.

The study included 460 patients, with 38% in the ultrasound cohort. Video review showed a 2% complication rate of femoral head scuffing and <2% labral injury in both techniques, with no significant difference between techniques in cartilage injury (P = .90) or labrum puncture (P = .41). Six patients underwent revision procedures, 2 in the x-ray group and 6 in the ultrasound group. One patient developed a deep infection postoperatively. There were no other major complications.

Ultrasound-guided hip arthroscopy is a safe alternative to the standard x-ray-guided procedure in patients with a BMI less than 35.

III, retrospective cohort.