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6:32
Published March 15, 2022

The Femoroacetabular Impingement Resection Arc

Background One of the most common causes for poor outcomes after hip arthroscopy is inadequate resection. The development of a simple and reproducible visual intraoperative aid could help improve outcomes of hip arthroscopy in the setting of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and potentially reduce the need for revision surgery owing to under-resection. The FAI resection (FAIR) arc is partially derived from the concept of the Shenton line, which is a continuous curvilinear line along the inferior aspect of the superior pubic ramus and inferomedial border of the femoral neck. The FAIR arc uses a similar curvilinear line along the superolateral border of the subspine region, acetabular rim, and femoral neck. It is designed to assess the adequacy of cam lesion resection. It can be used to measure cam deformity pre- and postoperatively, as well as serve as an intraoperative visual cue to help guide cam resection during hip arthroscopy. Purpose This video provides an evaluation of the association between postoperative cam lesion as measured by the FAIR arc and 2-year patient outcomes after hip arthroscopy. Methods The anatomy of, examination of, diagnosis of, and treatment options for a patient with femoroacetabular impingement are reviewed. The FAIR arc technique is described and then demonstrated through a case presentation. Results A successful case is demonstrated with postoperative follow-up demonstrating improvement. Outcome studies evaluating the utility of the technique are then discussed. Conclusion The FAIR arc is a useful technique that can help surgeons guide intraoperative resection. According to the FAIR arc, patients with more resection have higher functional scores than those of patients with less FAIR arc resection.