Santa Monica Hip Surgeon

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical approach used to treat selected conditions inside the hip joint, including labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement, cartilage injuries, and certain forms of instability. Through small incisions, Dr. Shore can address damaged tissue and correct structural problems while preserving the natural joint whenever appropriate. Arthroscopy is most effective when the underlying joint remains healthy enough to benefit from preservation.

Anterior total hip replacement may be appropriate when arthritis, avascular necrosis, or other advanced joint damage causes significant pain and loss of function that cannot be addressed effectively with preservation. The procedure replaces the damaged joint through an anterior approach, which allows access to the hip from the front. Dr. Shore considers replacement when it offers a more predictable and durable path to restored mobility than further joint-preserving treatment.

Periacetabular osteotomy is a joint-preserving procedure used primarily for patients with hip dysplasia, in which the socket does not adequately cover the femoral head. The procedure repositions the hip socket to improve joint stability and load distribution while preserving the patient’s natural hip. It may be considered in younger or active patients when the joint has not progressed to advanced arthritis.

For appropriately selected patients, the bikini incision approach provides an anterior pathway to hip replacement, with the incision positioned along the natural skin crease at the front of the hip. This placement may result in a less conspicuous scar as it heals while maintaining the advantages of an anterior approach.

Complex and revision hip preservation includes advanced arthroscopic and open procedures designed to correct structural abnormalities, address joint damage, and preserve the natural hip when appropriate. For patients with complex anatomy or persistent symptoms after prior hip-preservation surgery, Dr. Shore may address problems involving the labrum, cartilage, bone, joint alignment, or other sources of continued dysfunction. The goal is not preservation at all costs, but preservation when it offers a meaningful opportunity for long-term function.

For selected patients with persistent piriformis-related sciatic nerve compression, Dr. Shore may perform endoscopic piriformis release and sciatic nerve neurolysis. Using a minimally invasive approach, the piriformis muscle is released as needed, and the sciatic nerve is freed from surrounding tissue that may be contributing to compression or irritation. These procedures may be considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.

Some hip pain originates outside the joint itself, particularly from injuries to the gluteal or hamstring tendons. When symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment, surgical repair may be considered to restore tendon function, improve strength, and reduce pain. Dr. Shore evaluates the location and severity of the injury, imaging findings, and the patient’s functional goals before recommending surgery.

Many hip conditions can initially be treated without surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include physical therapy, activity modification, medications, corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma, or other conservative measures. Dr. Shore uses non-surgical care both as treatment and, in some cases, as part of the diagnostic process before considering an operation.