Prior Arthroscopy Leads to Inferior Outcomes in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Match-Controlled Study

Abstract

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most common reoperations after hip arthroscopy. Although arthroscopy causes changes in the hip joint and the surrounding soft tissues that can make THA more challenging, previous reports on arthroscopy before THA have not demonstrated any significant effect on clinical outcomes.

Methods: Patients who underwent a THA following an ipsilateral hip arthroscopy were matched to a control group of THA patients with no history of ipsilateral hip surgery. Matching criteria were age within 5 years, sex, body mass index within 5, surgical approach, and robotic assistance. Harris Hip Score, Forgotten Joint Score-12, visual analog scale score, satisfaction, and postoperative complication and reoperation rates were compared at minimum 2-year follow-up.

Results: Thirty-five THA after arthroscopy patients were successfully matched to control patients. There were no significant differences in demographics between study groups. The THA after arthroscopy group had significantly lower Harris Hip Score, Forgotten Joint Score-12, and satisfaction at latest follow-up. They had higher visual analog scale score and complication rate in differences that closely approached significance. There was no significant difference in reoperation rate.

Conclusions: A prior hip arthroscopy may adversely affect the clinical outcomes of THA. This potential risk should be considered when assessing the candidacy of a patient for hip arthroscopy.

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