Capsular Management of the Hip During Arthroscopic Acetabular Chondral Resurfacing: Pearls, Pitfalls, and Optimal Surgical Technique

Abstract

Treatment of hip joint chondral damage is a well-recognized aspect of the arthroscopic management of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. Hip chondral resurfacing has evolved from microfracture to different forms of cartilage grafting, all with variable long-term outcomes. Recent literature has focused on techniques using different cartilage sources (native and synthetic products) that are available for clinicians to choose from during hip arthroscopy. None of the published reports on cartilage grafts have commented on hip joint capsular management as part of the procedure. This is likely because of the increased difficulty of capsular closure in the dry arthroscopic environment required for graft stabilization. However, potential iatrogenic hip instability induced by an unrepaired interportal capsulotomy can be detrimental to the existing joint architecture and possibly to the cartilage graft. This article presents a step-by-step approach, including tips and pearls, for capsular closure during arthroscopic acetabular chondral resurfacing with BioCartilage (Arthrex, Naples, FL). This method is a safe and reproducible way to close the joint capsule during chondral resurfacing in patients undergoing hip preservation that can potentially enhance the chances of a successful outcome.