Arthroscopic management of anterior inferior iliac spine impingement: a systematic review

Introduction: Subspine impingement is characterized by a prominent anterior inferior iliac spine that creates an abnormal contact with the distal femoral neck during hip movements. Currently, the clinical picture and diagnostic criteria are still being refined for these conditions. This study aimed to systematically review the literature on the subspine impingement arthroscopic treatment to elucidate the indication for and clinical outcome of surgical arthroscopic decompression of the anterior inferior iliac spine. Methods: The PubMed and Web of Science library were searched for any publications using the terms "subspine impingement" and "subspine impingement hip" in the "Title, Abstract, Keywords" field. The search was extended to all the literature on the topic. Results: Overall, 127 studies were initially retrieved; ultimately, 8 studies were included examining 361 hips. The arthroscopic decompression of the anterior inferior iliac spine resulted in a mean 18.5 degrees improvement in flexion, as well as improvements in pain and functional outcome scores. Conclusion: This review suggests that arthroscopic decompression of a symptomatic anterior inferior iliac spine deformity can provide excellent outcomes at short-term follow-up in the absence of significant complications and recurrences.