Hip arthroscopy: a unique inferomedial approach to bullet removal

Abstract

Most arthroscopic approaches allow for inspection of the lateral part of the hip joint, but visualization of the medial part is difficult. This article describes the removal of a bullet lodged in the right femoral head of a 33-year-old man. By using an inferomedial arthroscopic approach, we avoided a formal arthrotomy and the disadvantages of other arthroscopic approaches, which include the need for alternate portals, the need for traction, and the risk of both articular cartilage and acetabular labrum damage. The authors believe that this case demonstrates the effective use of the inferomedial arthroscopic approach as an alternative method for removing foreign bodies.