Hip arthroscopy is best performed in a hip that is relatively normal with the exception of an isolated torn piece of cartilage on the rim of the socket (the labrum) or in a cases of femoroacetabular impingement that can be corrected arthroscopically. As of 2011, hip arthroscopy is often over-used in relation to so-called pincer impingement and in cases of modest pre-existing osteoarthrosis. In the case of arthrosis, arthroscopy is rarely helpful for a significant period of time and can exacerbate symptoms acutely, actually precipitating rather delaying the need for definitive reconstruction.

McCarthy J, Barsoum W, Puri L, Lee J, Murphy S, Cooke P. The Role of Hip Arthroscopy in the Elite Athlete. Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research. 2003 (406):71-74.