Hip Arthroscopy in Gangnam, Seoul Keyhole hip surgery
Hip arthroscopy uses a small camera and fine instruments to treat problems inside the hip joint through a few small incisions, often helping active adults return to sport and daily life.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, at 731 Eonju-ro in Gangnam, Seoul, near Hakdong Station Exit 10, performs hip arthroscopy for problems such as labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement and loose fragments. Orthopedic surgeons work through small incisions with a camera, followed by a structured physical therapy program. English-speaking coordinators assist international patients with appointments and travel planning; book by WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796.
Who may benefit from hip arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy works best for specific structural problems in hips that still have healthy cartilage. It is usually considered after several months of good non-surgical care. For an overview of all hip problems, see our Hip Center.
Labral tears
Groin pain, clicking or catching from a torn socket rim. Read about hip labral tears.
Hip impingement (FAI)
Cam or pincer bone shapes that pinch the joint can be reshaped. See hip impingement.
Loose bodies
Small fragments of bone or cartilage that float in the joint and cause locking or sharp pain.
Cartilage damage
Localized cartilage injuries can sometimes be trimmed or treated to reduce mechanical symptoms.
Persistent symptoms
Pain that limits sport or daily life despite physical therapy, activity changes and injections.
Not for advanced arthritis
If arthritis is severe, arthroscopy rarely helps much and hip replacement is usually more reliable.
How hip arthroscopy works
The hip is a deep ball-and-socket joint, so the surgeon gently creates space inside it to see and work safely.
Diagnosis and planning
Your surgeon confirms the problem with an exam, X-rays and MRI, and checks that your cartilage is healthy enough to benefit.
Anesthesia and positioning
You are under general or spinal anesthesia. Gentle traction on the leg opens a small space inside the joint.
Small incisions
Usually two or three small cuts let a camera and fine instruments into the hip, guided by fluoroscopy.
Repair and reshape
The surgeon may repair a torn labrum with small anchors, reshape extra bone or remove loose fragments.
Closing
The instruments are removed and the small wounds are closed. Many patients go home within a short stay.
Hip arthroscopy compared with other options
The right treatment depends on what is damaged and how much healthy cartilage remains. Your surgeon will talk through each option with you.
| Option | Best suited for | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Physical therapy | Most early hip pain, mild labral tears, mild impingement | Several weeks of guided exercise; no incisions |
| Image-guided injection | Calming inflammation, or confirming the pain comes from the joint | Quick outpatient procedure; relief may be temporary |
| Hip arthroscopy | Labral tears, impingement or loose bodies with healthy cartilage | Small incisions; months of structured rehabilitation |
| Open hip surgery | Complex deformities that cannot be reached with a camera | Larger incision; longer initial recovery |
| Hip replacement | Advanced arthritis with bone-on-bone wear | Major surgery; reliable pain relief for many patients |
Your recovery timeline
Recovery depends on what was done. A labral repair or bone reshaping needs more protection than removing a loose fragment. Our dedicated therapists tailor your program.
First days
You walk with crutches, often with limited weight on the leg. Ice, pain control and gentle movement begin early.
Weeks 1 to 6
Crutches are usually weaned over a few weeks. Physical therapy focuses on safe range of motion and gentle strengthening.
Weeks 6 to 12
Strength and balance work progresses. Many people return to desk work and normal daily activity.
3 to 6 months
Sport-specific training builds up step by step. Many athletes return to sport in this window with their surgeon's approval.
Repairing a torn labrum
One of the most common reasons for hip arthroscopy is a torn labrum, the cartilage rim that seals and deepens the hip socket.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Common Questions
Is hip arthroscopy a day surgery?
Many patients go home on the day of surgery or after a short stay, depending on what was done and how they feel. Your surgeon will advise you before the operation. You will need crutches when you leave.
How soon can I fly home after hip arthroscopy?
Discuss timing with your surgeon before booking flights. Long flights after leg surgery raise the risk of blood clots, so you may be advised to wait and take preventive steps. Our coordinators can help you plan follow-up visits around your travel.
Can hip arthroscopy prevent arthritis?
Correcting impingement or repairing the labrum may reduce further damage in some patients, but it cannot guarantee that arthritis will not develop. It works best before significant cartilage wear has occurred.
What are the risks?
Hip arthroscopy is generally considered low risk, but possible problems include temporary numbness from traction, infection, blood clots and persistent pain. Seek care promptly for fever, calf swelling or sudden breathlessness, and call 119 in a life-threatening emergency.
Does insurance cover hip arthroscopy?
If you are enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS), it can be applied to eligible care. For international insurance, our coordinators can explain the billing documents you will receive. Check coverage and any pre-approval with your insurer first.
What if my hip already has arthritis?
If arthritis is advanced, arthroscopy rarely gives lasting relief. Your surgeon may recommend non-surgical care or hip replacement surgery instead.
Ask whether hip arthroscopy suits you
Share your MRI or symptoms on WhatsApp and an English-speaking coordinator will arrange a consultation.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
