Evidence of capsular defect following hip arthroscopy

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify the incidence of capsular defects in patients undergoing revision hip arthroscopy. Methods: A radiographic and anatomical analysis of MR arthrograms of patients undergoing revision arthroscopy was performed to assess for the presence of capsular defect. Intra-operative images and findings were reviewed. Patients with persistent cam and pincer lesions were excluded. Results: From October 2011 to October 2012, 25 patients underwent revision hip arthroscopy surgery, and 9 patients met our inclusion criteria. Within this series, all patients had post-surgical capsular irregularities and seven patients (78 %) had radiographic evidence of capsule and iliofemoral defects on MR arthrogram. Gross capsular defects were confirmed at revision surgery in two patients. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate post-surgical radiographic and anatomical evidence of capsular defects in a select group of patients following hip arthroscopy. Level of evidence: IV.