Intraabdominal fluid after hip arthroscopy - a case report

Hip arthroscopy is gaining increasing importance, i. e., in the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement. Numerous published studies suggest that the overall complication rate of this procedure is less than 1.5 %, which characterises it as a relatively safe procedure. Among the most common complications are pudendal neuropathy, chronic hip instability, inadequate debridement, and occasional femoral neck fractures. Despite these aspects, the increasing use of hip arthroscopy has recently led to a rise in reported complications. In this context, we would like to present the case of a 40yearold otherwise healthy woman who experienced an accumulation of approximately 3 litres of free irrigation fluid in the abdominal cavity during hip arthroscopy. The uncontrolled spread of arthroscopy fluid outside its intended area represents a potentially serious complication during hip arthroscopy. The use of transparent dressings as a technical aid may enhance safety for early recognition of this complication. Therefore, thorough monitoring and close communication between surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and the operation team is crucial to ensuring patient's safety and the success of the procedure.