Outcomes After Primary Hip Arthroscopy in Athletes Older Than 40 Years Compared With Nonathletes
Authors
Saks BR, Monahan PF, Hawkins GC, Maldonado DR, Jimenez AE, Sabetian PW, Lall AC, Domb BG
Journal
Am J Sports Med, July 2022
Background
Master athletes (MAs), or athletes older than 40 years, represent a growing group seeking primary hip arthroscopy. This study compares outcomes between MAs and nonathletes (NAs) following hip arthroscopy.
Methods
- Patients older than 40 who underwent primary hip arthroscopy were included.
- MAs were matched 1:2 with NAs based on demographics and preoperative findings.
- Patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) were collected at baseline and minimum two-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- MAs showed significantly better baseline and 2-year PROMs compared to NAs.
- MAs had lower rates of secondary arthroscopy (0% vs 7.5%) and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (12.5% vs 26.9%).
- Both groups showed similar absolute improvements in PROM scores.
Conclusions
MAs demonstrate favorable outcomes after hip arthroscopy, with better PROMs, higher satisfaction, and lower rates of complications when compared to NAs.
What Does This Mean For Patients
If you are over 40 and an active athlete, hip arthroscopy could provide significant benefits, with outcomes comparable or even superior to nonathletes.