A minimally invasive procedure to treat hip impingement by reshaping the joint and relieving mechanical pain.
Hip keyhole surgery addresses structural problems within the joint caused by abnormal bone shapes. By trimming or reshaping these bones arthroscopically, the surgeon reduces friction, relieves pain, and improves joint motion.
Abnormal bone growth (cam/pincer lesions): Irregular shapes of the ball or socket restrict movement.
Repetitive movement: Sports or occupations requiring hip flexion (e.g., squatting, kicking).
Previous hip injury: Trauma may change joint shape or movement patterns.
Labral damage: Friction from impingement can tear the joint’s soft rim.
Genetics: Some people are naturally predisposed to hip impingement.
Your clinician will perform a physical exam and assess your symptoms. Imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans will confirm the presence of bone deformities or labral damage. If conservative treatments like physiotherapy or injections fail to relieve your symptoms, and imaging supports a mechanical cause, keyhole surgery may be recommended to correct the underlying issue.
Who it suits
Hip keyhole surgery, or arthroscopy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat impingement. Using a small camera and specialised instruments inserted through tiny incisions, the surgeon reshapes the ball (femoral head) or socket (acetabulum) to eliminate abnormal contact. This restores smooth joint movement, relieves pain, and protects the cartilage and labrum from further damage. Recovery typically includes physiotherapy to restore strength and mobility.
Hip impingement—also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—occurs when abnormal bone shapes in the hip joint cause the bones to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential joint damage. It’s common in active individuals and athletes and can worsen over time if untreated.
Cost and paying
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
What happens
Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
How long is the recovery after hip keyhole surgery?
Is the procedure painful?
Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?
London Cartilage Clinic
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
Free discovery call
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