Hip arthroscopy for posttraumatic loose fragments in the young active adult: three case reports.

PURPOSE. To demonstrate the usefulness of arthroscopy in the management of posttraumatic loose fragments of the hip in the young active adult. CASE SUMMARY. Operative arthroscopy of the hip has been performed successfully in 30 consecutive cases, with the patient supine. Three of these procedures were performed for posttraumatic loose fragments in young athletic males. All three underwent debridement. The age ranged from 17 to 28 years (average 23 years). Follow-up ranged from 14 to 33 months (average 22 months). Although each case was unique, each had a successful outcome. RELEVANCE. This reflects the merits of arthroscopic techniques in the assessment and management of specific disorders about the hip. The technique is safe and reproducible.