Diagnostic hip arthroscopy in the dog.

Needle arthroscopy enables direct hip visualization for diagnosis and treatment of canine hip diseases.

This article describes the needle arthroscopy technique for diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation of the canine hip joint. The procedure involves sedation or anesthesia with the patient in lateral recumbency, affected hip positioned superiorly. A spinal needle is inserted at the 12 o'clock position dorsal to the greater trochanter, with needle size dependent on patient dimensions. The joint is distended with lactated Ringer solution (LRS) to facilitate visualization. Portal establishment includes an inflow sheath with arthroscope insertion and egress needle placement at 5 o'clock (right hip) or 7 o'clock (left hip) positions. Instrument portals are positioned at 10 o'clock (left hip) or 2 o'clock (right hip). Continuous or intermittent LRS infusion maintains joint distension. Needle arthroscopy enables direct visualization of hip structures, facilitating diagnosis and treatment of various hip pathologies. The authors recommend considering direct hip visualization in dogs presenting with lameness and pain localized to the hip joint, providing a minimally invasive alternative for comprehensive joint assessment.

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