What Is Cam Type Morphology

Cam-type morphology occurs when an abnormally shaped femoral head/neck has a region of increased radius forming a bump or ridge (1). During motions of flexion and internal rotation, an increased amount of shear stress is placed on the labral cartilage by the abnormal contact with the enlarged femoral head/neck (2).

How common is Cam morphology?

Cam morphology of the proximal femur is an abnormal contour of the femoral head-neck junction present in approximately 15% to 25% of the asymptomatic population, predominantly in males.

What is a cam type deformity?

What is a cam deformity or a cam lesion? The hip is a ball and a socket joint. The ball is called the femoral head and the socket is called the acetabulum. In patients with a cam deformity, the head is not perfectly spherical and does not fit well into the socket.