Clinical Outcomes and Return to Sport in Competitive Athletes Undergoing Arthroscopic Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening Compared With a Matched Control Group Without Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening

Clinical Outcomes and Return to Sport in Competitive Athletes Undergoing Arthroscopic Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening Compared With a Matched Control Group Without Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening

Authors

Perets I, Hartigan DE, Chaharbakhshi EO, Ashberg L, Mu B, Domb BG
Journal: Arthroscopy. 2018 Feb;34(2):456–463
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.08.292

Background

Iliopsoas snapping and tightness may contribute to hip pain and dysfunction in athletes, and fractional lengthening (IFL) can be performed during arthroscopy.

Methods: This case-control study evaluated 75 competitive athletes undergoing IFL and matched them to 41 athletes undergoing hip arthroscopy without IFL. Minimum 2-year follow-up was required.

Key Findings

PRO scores improved significantly in both groups, with no difference in satisfaction or return-to-sport rates. Painful snapping resolved in 92% of IFL patients, and no hip flexor weakness was reported.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic IFL is a safe and effective procedure in athletes with iliopsoas pathology, without compromising return to sport or function.

What Does This Mean for Patients

For athletes with iliopsoas-related symptoms, fractional lengthening during arthroscopy can relieve symptoms and help maintain athletic performance.