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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.