Abstract:

Arthroscopic radiofrequency ablation is an effective minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of gluteal muscle contracture. Traditional open surgery is traumatic and has a high risk of complications. Minimally invasive surgery has minor trauma, small incision and less postoperative complications. According to the position of the contracture tissue, the operation makes two small incisions around the apex of the greater trochanter of the femur. An enough artificial working space to be placed the entire arthroscopic instrument is created in the interval between the subcutaneous fascia and the contracture bands using curette through the incision. The contracture zone is disconnected with radiofrequency ablation technique. It is applicable to degree I and II patients, and may be used cautiously in degree III patients or patients with pelvic tilt, pelvic narrowing, lengthening, and increased femoral neck dry angle in X-ray examination. Arthroscopic radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of GMC has the advantages of positive clinical efficacy, less intraoperative blood loss, shorter hospitalization time, early getting out of bed, quicker postoperative rehabilitation and higher satisfaction. However, the complications cannot be ignored, such as hematoma, sciatic nerve injury, abductor muscle weakness, wound infection and postoperative recurrence. This article mainly reviewed the indications, surgical methods, clinical efficacy and complications of arthroscopic radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of GMC.

Key words: Arthroscopes, Contracture, Hip joint