Microfracture in the Hip: A Matched-Control Study with Average 3-Year Follow-up
Citation
Lodhia P, Gui C, Chandrasekaran S, Suarez-Ahedo C, Vemula SP, Domb BG.
J Hip Preserv Surg. 2015 Dec 10;2(4):417-27.
DOI: 10.1093/jhps/hnv073
Purpose
To compare outcomes in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy with microfracture for full-thickness cartilage damage versus those without such damage.
Methods
- Prospective matched-control study with minimum 2-year follow-up.
- Compared four PRO scores between 35 microfracture patients and 70 controls matched by demographics and treatment factors.
Key Findings
- Both groups improved significantly in all outcome scores.
- No significant difference in most PRO scores between groups except better daily living scores and less pain in controls.
- Patient satisfaction was slightly lower in the microfracture group but not statistically significant.
Conclusion
Microfracture combined with hip arthroscopy produces favorable outcomes similar to arthroscopy alone in patients without full-thickness cartilage damage.
What This Means for Patients
Patients with cartilage damage undergoing microfracture during hip arthroscopy can expect similar improvements to those without cartilage damage, although some may experience slightly more pain and functional limitations.