Surgeon Experience in Hip Arthroscopy Affects Surgical Time, Complication Rate, and Reoperation Rate: A Systematic Review on the Learning Curve
Authors
Go CC, Kyin C, Maldonado DR, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2020.06.033
Background
Hip arthroscopy is a challenging procedure that requires significant skill. As surgeons gain more experience, the outcomes of surgery, including the time taken, complication rates, and reoperation rates, tend to improve.
Methods
This review analyzed 15 studies on the learning curve of hip arthroscopy. The studies examined how surgical experience influenced surgical and traction time, complication rates, and reoperation rates. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were also considered.
Key Findings
Surgeon experience played a crucial role in reducing surgery time, traction time, and complication rates. As surgeons completed more surgeries, they also had fewer reoperations, and patient-reported outcomes improved. The learning curve plateaued after 20 to 500 surgeries.
Conclusions
Experience is key to improving the outcomes of hip arthroscopy. Surgeons become more efficient and effective over time, resulting in better overall outcomes for patients.
What Does This Mean for Patients
If you're undergoing hip arthroscopy, the surgeon's experience may impact the surgery's efficiency and outcome. You can expect improved results as the surgeon gains more experience with the procedure.