Abstract
Several previous pathoanatomical and biomechanical studies focused primarily on the cam morphology as the primary contributor to symptoms of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and limited range of motion. However, there is a growing population of individuals with asymptomatic cam morphologies who show no clinical signs; thus, the cam deformity, alone, may not fully delineate an individual's symptomatology or limited motion. These studies expanded beyond the cam morphology, to determine how additional anatomical characteristics could contribute to symptoms and influence functional mobility, using: 1) in vivo analyses, where we asked how specific anatomical parameters (in addition to the cam morphology) can predict individuals at risk of symptoms; 2) In silico simulations, where we examined how pathoanatomical features contributed to adverse loading conditions, resulting in higher risks of hip joint degeneration; 3) In vitro cadaveric experiments, where we examined the contributions of the cam morphology and encapsulating ligaments to joint mechanics and microinstability. This research further highlights that more emphasis should be placed on proper patient selection. There are implications of how structural anatomy can affect musculature, joint loading and stability, which should all be closely examined to improve the effectiveness of hip preservation surgery as well as the understanding of non-surgical management.
