Arthroscopic Repair of Acetabular Cartilage Delamination Using Chondral Nail Fixation in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement

Acetabular cartilage delamination is commonly seen in patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), especially ones with the cam deformity. However, the definition and classification of acetabular cartilage injuries caused by FAI to guide clinical treatment remain controversial. Moreover, treatment of acetabular cartilage damage always causes a dilemma for surgeon during surgery. We believe a reliable repair of the acetabular cartilage delamination will lead to a better long-term outcome for patients with FAI. In this Technical Note, we introduce the chondral nail fixation under hip arthroscopy for treating acetabular cartilage delamination in patients with FAI. This technique contributes to eliminating intra-articular unstable factors, preserving native cartilage as much as possible, and restoring cartilage surface intact at best.