Early outcome of hip arthroscopy for the treatment of pincer femoroacetabular impingement

Background
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is recognized as a cause of hip pain in young adults and as a precursor to osteoarthritis. Labral tears have been described in association with FAI. It is not clear as to whether arthroscopic labral debridement can improve patient symptoms.
Patients and methods
Eleven patients with FAI pincer-type lesion were treated with arthroscopic labral debridement. The presence of FAI was confirmed preoperatively on plain radiograph and MRI. The clinical (Merle d’Aubigné) score was used preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively.
Results
The mean Merle d’Aubigné score improved from 10 points (range = 7–11 points) preoperatively to 17 points (range = 14–18 points) at 1 year postoperatively.
Conclusion
Arthroscopic labral debridement for pincer type of FAI significantly improves patient symptoms and gives rapid functional recovery.