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Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
TREATMENT
In FAI, abnormal bone develops around the femoral head and/or along the acetabulum. This extra bone causes abnormal contact between the hip bones, and prevents them from moving smoothly during activity. Over time, this can result in tears of the labrum and breakdown of articular cartilage (osteoarthritis).
Nonsurgical Treatment
Activity changes
Mr Slattery may first recommend simply changing your daily routine and avoiding activities that cause symptoms.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
Drugs like ibuprofen can be provided in a prescription-strength form to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy
Specific exercises may improve the range of motion in your hip and strengthen the muscles that support the joint. This can relieve some stress on the injured labrum or cartilage.
Surgical Treatment
If tests show joint damage caused by FAI and your pain is not relieved by nonsurgical treatment, Mr Slattery may recommend surgery.
Arthroscopy
Many FAI problems can be treated with arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopic procedures are done with small incisions and thin instruments. Mr Slattery uses a small camera, called an arthroscope, to view inside the hip.
Open FAI Surgery
More severe cases of FAI require open operations to completely visualise the joint and access all areas which cannot be adequately done with an arthroscope. In these cases Mr Slattery will recommend open FAI surgery.
Total Hip Replacement
FAI is one of the leading causes of arthritis, and if the cartilage is damaged too much, then total hip replacement may be recommended.
Dr David Slattery
FRACS MBBS (Hons) LLB FAOrthA
Dr David Slattery is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Melbourne with over 10 years of experience, with a special focus on hip and knee joint preservation and replacement. With qualifications in both medicine and law, he brings a unique and comprehensive approach to patient care. His surgical techniques are minimally invasive and evidence-based, designed to reduce pain and enhance recovery.
Trained in leading institutions across Europe and the USA, Dr Slattery offers advanced treatments for a wide range of joint conditions. He is deeply committed to patient outcomes and takes pride in tailoring treatment plans to each individual. Whether you’re an athlete or seeking relief from chronic joint pain, his goal is to restore function and improve your quality of life.
To book an appointment please contact Dr Slattery’s rooms on
03 5752 5020
We aim to see all fractures within 24hrs