I found out a couple of weeks ago that I might need Hip Arthroscopy due to Femoroacetabular Impingement in both hips. My initial x-rays showed I have Cam Lesions on both hips. My doctor, Dr. John Xenos, said it is unknown what causes this but is common among certain types of athletes at a fairly young age. I'm a 40 year old white male that grew up playing numerous sports but Ice Hockey was my sport of choice and the sport I continue to play in my adult years.
Dr. Xenos ordered a bilateral hip arthrogram and MRI w/ contrast which I did yesterday. To be honest, I wasn't looking forward to having a needle stuck in my hip and then my hip joint filled with fluid...I thought it would be rather uncomfortable if not painful. I showed up to my appointment, filled out the paperwork and waited for my name to be called. After a short wait, I was called back, given a pair of paper shorts and laying on the exam table under an x-ray machine. The PA came in that was going to do the injections and explained the process and made sure she had the correct patient. I was a little anxious but, being a former Army medic I have had numerous shots, IVs, blood draws performed on me. The PA did the numbing injection in my R hip and I barely felt a pinch. She then pushed the dye and I felt a slight amount of pressure but really not bad at all. She moved on to my L hip and to be honest, I didn't feel any needle sticks nor pressure! I was relieved that this procedure was so easy.
I then moved to another room to get the MRI. The technician explained the process and before I knew it I was inside the MRI. The first 30 minutes wasn't bad other than the loud noised but, the final 30 minutes my lower back started to hurt and became quite painful. Just as I was about to submit to the pain the MRI was over, 1 hour total.
I should have my results in the next 2-3 days and have a better idea about the need for surgery. I'll post the MRI results as soon as I receive them.
