At Scottish Rite Hospital, our experts travel the world to share their knowledge with other specialists in the field. Their research is selected consistently to be presented on an international stage, ultimately advancing the care for pediatric orthopedic patients. 

This week, pediatric orthopedic surgeon Henry B. Ellis, M.D., attended the International Society for Hip Arthroscopy (ISHA) annual meeting in Madrid, Spain. Established in 2008, the society was created to bring together medical professionals from across the globe who have a common interest in hip arthroscopic surgery. The group collaborates throughout the year to advance and evolve this area of hip surgery. The three-day meeting included presentations, debates and discussions covering various hip topics. Members from different countries and institutions provided insight on their research and practice, making for a well-rounded program.

While at the annual scientific meeting, Ellis was invited by the president of the organization to present on the future in pediatric and adolescent hip arthroscopy. He reviewed the application of hip arthroscopy in patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and other hip problems that occur in the growing athlete. When symptomatic, this condition causes pain and can require surgery to minimize damage to the soft tissue in the hip joint. Ellis warns that activity during peak growth velocity may contribute to increased symptoms or progression of the deformity. This is the most common application of hip arthroscopy in the young population. Additionally, Ellis described a technique for treating musculoskeletal infection of the hip, also called septic hip. He is optimistic that this tool will continue to be more helpful in the treatment of these pediatric hip conditions and others that have traditionally required open surgeries.

Ellis focuses on the preservation of the hip during critical periods of growth and development. He is a strong advocate for variability in activity of our young athletes, especially skilled and talented athletes who often times specialize at a young age. Specializing early without variability can place load on the hip that can cause unfavorable developmental changes.  

“I have a special interest in this type of procedure,” says Ellis. “Through our research, we are able to identify the benefits of hip arthroscopy and how we can help our patients return to doing what they love. I am honored to be able to share my knowledge with other specialists to help children both here and around the world.”

As a fellow in the prestigious Steadman Philippon Research Institute Fellowship in Vail, Colorado, Ellis had the opportunity to practice and study complex hip arthroscopy techniques. He continues to collaborate on advancements in pediatric hip arthroscopy with orthopedic surgeons who were also fellows in this program. Through these collaborations, Ellis is soon to begin enrolling in a multi-center study on femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) that is supported by the United States Department of Defense.