Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery in Patients With Tönnis Grade 1 Osteoarthritis at a Minimum 5-Year Follow-up
Authors
Domb BG, Chaharbakhshi EO, Rybalko D, Close MR, Litrenta J, Perets I
Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine
DOI: 10.1177/0363546517706957
Background
The impact of mild osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade 1) on long-term outcomes of hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and labral tears remains uncertain.
Methods
Retrospective matched-pair study of 85 patients with Tönnis grade 1 osteoarthritis, compared to 62 matched controls with Tönnis grade 0, followed for a minimum of 5 years.
Key Findings
- Both groups showed significant improvement in pain and function (mHHS, NAHS, HOS-SSS, VAS).
- Slightly higher rate of hip replacement in Tönnis grade 1 group (30.6%) vs. Tönnis 0 (11.6%).
- No significant differences in post-op PRO scores between the two groups.
Conclusions
Mild OA (Tönnis 1) should not be considered a contraindication to hip arthroscopy. Patients can expect durable improvements but should be counseled about potential progression.
What This Means for Patients
- Patients with mild arthritis can still benefit from hip arthroscopy.
- There's a higher risk of needing a hip replacement later on compared to those with no arthritis.
- Setting realistic expectations is crucial for surgical planning.