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Lateral to Medial Joint Space Ratio is Predictive of Survivorship After Primary Hip Arthroscopy

Authors

Rosinsky PJ, Chen JW, Glein RM, Jimenez AE, Brayboy C, Domb BG

Journal

Arthroscopy, February 2023

Background

This study investigates whether preoperative joint space measurements, specifically the lateral-to-medial (L/M) joint space ratio, can predict the likelihood of survivorship following hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Methods

  • 1,885 patients who underwent hip arthroscopy were studied.
  • Preoperative joint space measurements were taken, and patients were followed for at least 2 years to track survivorship, defined as no need for conversion to hip arthroplasty.

Key Findings

  • The L/M joint space ratio was found to be the strongest predictor of survivorship after hip arthroscopy.
  • Patients with an L/M ratio ≥0.75 had a higher survival rate (91.7%) compared to those with a ratio <0.75 (75%).

Conclusions

The L/M joint space ratio is a significant factor in predicting the success of hip arthroscopy and may help guide treatment decisions.

What Does This Mean For Patients

If you are undergoing hip arthroscopy, your preoperative joint space ratio can help predict your likelihood of avoiding future surgeries like hip replacement.