What Is Hip Preservation?
Hip preservation includes both non-surgical and surgical techniques that aim to delay or prevent the need for a hip replacement. By addressing the underlying cause of pain or dysfunction—such as a labral tear, hip impingement, avascular necrosis, or dysplasia—our team can help protect your joint from long-term damage.
IBJI’s comprehensive hip preservation program is designed to relieve pain, correct structural issues, and improve function while keeping your natural hip joint intact.
At IBJI, we specialize in hip preservation procedures for active patients and young adults with hip pain. These advanced surgeries are designed to treat the root causes of hip joint damage and prevent or delay hip replacement — helping you stay active and pain-free for years to come.
At IBJI, when you call for an appointment for a hip preservation evaluation (terms like labrum tears, dysplasia, or avascular necrosis), you will be scheduled with our fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons specializing in hip preservation.
Common Symptoms That May Indicate Hip Preservation Is Needed
If you are experiencing any of the following, you may be a candidate for one of our hip preservation procedures:
- Groin or deep hip pain with activity
- Clicking, locking, or catching in the hip joint
- Pain after sitting or standing for long periods
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Limping or instability while walking
- Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Pain that has not improved with physical therapy, injections, or medications
Our Nonoperative Hip Preservation Treatments
IBJI offers a full spectrum of treatments to preserve the hip joint and minimize downtime, including:
- Advanced Imaging & Diagnosis: MRI, CT Scans, radiographs, and in-office evaluations to accurately assess joint structure, alignment, and damage.
- Non-Surgical Care: Physical therapy, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and therapeutic injections.
Our Operative or Surgical Hip Preservation Services include:
- Hip Arthroscopy
- Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)
- Femoral Head Core Decompression
Hip Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Hip Impingement & Labral Tears
What it treats:
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
- Labral tears
- Cartilage damage
- Loose bodies or synovitis
- Snapping hip syndrome
Procedure Overview:
Through two or three small incisions, a tiny camera and specialized instruments are inserted into the hip joint. Our surgeons trim or reshape abnormal bone, repair the labrum, and remove damaged tissue — all with minimal disruption.
Indications:
- Active individuals with mechanical hip pain
- No advanced arthritis
- Good bone structure
Outcomes:
- Over 90% of patients return to full activity
- Improved mobility, reduced pain
- Recovery in 3–6 months with physical therapy
- Return to play between 5-9 months after surgery
Periacetabular Osteotomy
Surgical Realignment for Hip Dysplasia
What it treats:
- Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)
- Shallow hip sockets
Procedure Overview:
The surgeon makes bone cuts around the hip socket (acetabulum) and repositions it to provide better coverage of the femoral head. The socket is fixed in place with screws, improving joint mechanics and reducing stress.
Indications:
- Adolescents and young adults (usually under 40)
- Diagnosed with hip dysplasia or unstable hip
- Preserved cartilage and minimal arthritis
Outcomes:
- Strong long-term joint preservation (>20 years)
- 6–12 month recovery, high return to sports or full activity
Femoral Head Core Decompression
A Joint-Saving Treatment for Avascular Necrosis (AVN) or Osteonecrosis
What it treats:
- Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) of the femoral head without collapse
Procedure Overview:
A small drill is used to create channels in the femoral head to relieve pressure, increase blood flow, and stimulate new bone growth. In some cases, it can be combined with bone grafting or biologic treatments. Often it is combined with hip arthroscopy if concomitant labrum tears are present.
Indications:
- Early-stage AVN (before collapse)
- Young patients seeking to avoid hip replacement
- Pain unresponsive to conservative care
Outcomes:
- Helps prevent collapse in early-stage AVN
- Best outcomes when done early
