Arthroscopic Treatment of Labral Tears in Patients 65 Years and Older
Authors
Hartigan DE, Wojnowski N, Krych AJ, Levy BA, Domb BG
DOI: 10.3928/01477447-20200827-09
Background
Hip arthroscopy is commonly performed to treat labral tears in younger individuals, but there is limited data on its effectiveness in patients over 65 years old. This study aims to explore the outcomes of arthroscopic treatment for labral tears in older adults.
Methods
This multicenter study included 26 patients aged 65 and older who underwent hip arthroscopy for labral tears. The study assessed their outcomes using the Hip Outcome Score (HOS) and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) after a minimum of 2 years.
Key Findings
Patients reported significant improvement in their hip function after surgery, with increases in both the mHHS and HOS-Sports-Specific Subscale.
Despite improvements, 9 patients required a total hip arthroplasty (THA) during the follow-up period.
The average patient satisfaction score was 7.7 out of 10.
Conclusions
Older adults with labral tears can experience modest clinical improvement from hip arthroscopy. However, the risk of needing a THA in the future remains, so careful patient selection is important.
What Does This Mean for Patients
If you're over 65 and have a labral tear in your hip, hip arthroscopy may improve your hip function and reduce pain, but the possibility of needing a hip replacement later on should be considered.