ALT Anterior (front) x-ray view (orthogonal) of human hip

ALT Background and study aims Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAI) is where extra bone grows on the bones that form the hip joint, giving it an abnormal shape. This condition is common in young adults (aged 16–50) and can lead to damage of the lining of the hip joint (labrum) and cartilage and in some cases cause early onset of osteoarthritis. Majority of patients with FAI experience pain and problems with movement affecting their daily life as well as their physical and mental wellbeing. Two large scale research studies have demonstrated that correction of FAI via keyhole surgery (hip arthroscopy - which is looking at the affected area using a tiny camera inserted through a keyhole incision), can improve quality of life in the shorter term. However, not all patients benefit equally and the road to recovery can be long and difficult.