Earlier Treatment Yields Superior Outcomes in Competitive Athletes Undergoing Primary Hip Arthroscopy
Authors
Jimenez AE, Monahan PF, Owens JS, Maldonado DR, Curley AJ, Domb BG
Background
- The timing of hip arthroscopy after the onset of symptoms is crucial for competitive athletes with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS).
- This study investigates the impact of early intervention (within 1 year of symptoms) on outcomes for competitive athletes.
Methods
- Data was collected from competitive athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy within 1 year of symptom onset.
- Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were measured, and return-to-sport (RTS) rates were evaluated.
- A propensity-matched control group with symptoms for over 1 year was used for comparison.
Key Findings
- Athletes who had surgery within 1 year of symptom onset had significantly better postoperative PROs compared to those who waited longer.
- The two groups had similar rates of RTS and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement.
Conclusions
- Early treatment (within 1 year of symptom onset) for FAIS in competitive athletes results in better outcomes, including improved PROs, although return-to-sport rates were similar for both early and late treatment groups.
What Does This Mean for Patients
- If you're an athlete experiencing hip pain, undergoing surgery sooner rather than later may lead to faster recovery and better functional outcomes. However, even with delayed surgery, the likelihood of returning to sports is still high.