MSK Doctors

Hip keyhole

A minimally invasive procedure to treat hip impingement by reshaping the joint and relieving mechanical pain.

Hip keyhole

At A Glance

About

Abnormal bone shapes in the hip joint cause the bones to rub together

Effective

Referrals

Not Needed

Booking

Instant-book option available

Cost

Lincolnshire
£9,800

Nature of hip keyhole surgery

Hip keyhole surgery addresses structural problems within the joint caused by abnormal bone shapes. By trimming or reshaping these bones arthroscopically, the surgeon reduces friction, relieves pain, and improves joint motion.

Common causes of hip injuries

Hip Impingement Is Typically Caused By Overuse Or Sudden Strain, Including:

Abnormal bone growth (cam/pincer lesions): Irregular shapes of the ball or socket restrict movement.

Repetitive movement: Sports or occupations requiring hip flexion (e.g., squatting, kicking).

Previous hip injury: Trauma may change joint shape or movement patterns.

Labral damage: Friction from impingement can tear the joint’s soft rim.

Genetics: Some people are naturally predisposed to hip impingement.

Diagnosing suitability for hip keyhole surgery

Your clinician will perform a physical exam and assess your symptoms. Imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans will confirm the presence of bone deformities or labral damage. If conservative treatments like physiotherapy or injections fail to relieve your symptoms, and imaging supports a mechanical cause, keyhole surgery may be recommended to correct the underlying issue.

Suitable for

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Labral Tears Caused By Impingement

Labral Tears Caused By Impingement

Treatment overview

Hip keyhole surgery, or arthroscopy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat impingement. Using a small camera and specialised instruments inserted through tiny incisions, the surgeon reshapes the ball (femoral head) or socket (acetabulum) to eliminate abnormal contact. This restores smooth joint movement, relieves pain, and protects the cartilage and labrum from further damage. Recovery typically includes physiotherapy to restore strength and mobility.

Hip impingement—also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—occurs when abnormal bone shapes in the hip joint cause the bones to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential joint damage. It’s common in active individuals and athletes and can worsen over time if untreated.

Benefits

Minimally invasive

Relieves hip and groin pain

Restores normal joint movement

Helps prevent arthritis progression

Faster recovery than open surgery

How to Pay

We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.

Paying for Yourself
(Preferred Option)

Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:

Bank Transfers
Credit/Debit Cards
Cash (in person only)

Instalment Plans

We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.

Finance Options

Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.

Instant online decision
No impact on your credit score
Multiple lenders for competitive rates

Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)

We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.

Treatment Booking Process

01
Online booking/call

Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.

02
Consultation

Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.

03
Treatment

Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.

04
Rehab

Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.

05
Follow Up

You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.

06
Discharge

Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery after hip keyhole surgery?

Most people return to light activities in 4–6 weeks and sports within 3–6 months.

Is the procedure painful?

Discomfort is usually mild and manageable with pain relief. Most patients go home the same day.

Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?

Yes. Rehab is key to regaining strength, flexibility, and full joint function.

Recent Articles & Medical Insights

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Looking for Treatment in London?

We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.

Specialist in Cartilage Repair & Joint Preservation

Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.

Harley Street Clinic

Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-className musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.

Transparent Pricing & Direct Booking

If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.

Faster Recovery Outcomes

Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.

Book a free Discovery Call

Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help. Book a call with the admin team to discuss.

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