The Pull String Method: Optimizing Visualization for Arthroscopic Femoroplasty

Abstract

Capsular management during hip arthroscopy represents an important component to access, visualization, and restoration of hip stability. In the setting of femoroacetabular impingement, the peripheral compartment represents access to the femoral neck where abnormal morphology is commonly addressed with arthroscopic femoroplasty. While various techniques have been described for peripheral compartment visualization, difficulty can arise in creating a wide display of the femoral neck while minimizing subsequent impairment of the capsule. In order to obtain an unobstructed view of the femoral neck, the hip capsule must be managed skillfully. The use of hip flexion to relax the capsule for visualization of the peripheral compartment is a nearly universal practice for hip surgeons. However, differences in management of the capsule have previously included traction sutures and further capsulotomies. In this technical note, we describe our Pull String method for peripheral compartment access using an interportal capsulotomy with strategic traction suture placement and choreography of suture tensioning. This enables full view of the femoral neck for successful femoroplasty, while still allowing for complete capsule repair to help restore stability.