Our Summary

This study looked at the long-term effects of hip arthroscopy (a minimally invasive surgical procedure) in teenagers with a specific hip joint problem called femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), which is when the bones of the hip are abnormally shaped and do not fit together perfectly. The researchers specifically focused on patients who also had a related issue called a labral tear, which is damage to the ring of cartilage (labrum) that follows the outside rim of the socket of your hip joint. This study tracked the progress of these patients for at least 10 years after their surgery.

The study found that this type of surgery can have very positive outcomes for teenagers with these hip issues. The patients reported significant improvements in their daily activities, sports performance, and overall quality of life. Most were very satisfied with the results of their surgery. However, the study also found that about 10% of patients needed a second surgery. This was more common in female patients and in those who had experienced symptoms for a long time before their original surgery, or had a condition known as global laxity (extreme flexibility or looseness of the joints).

So, while the surgery generally had excellent results, the researchers suggest taking these factors into account when deciding on this kind of treatment. They also highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of FAI and labral tears.

FAQs

  1. What is femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and what is a labral tear?
  2. How effective is hip arthroscopy for teenagers with FAI and labral tears?
  3. What factors may increase the likelihood of needing a second hip arthroscopy surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about arthroscopy is to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, especially in cases of long-standing symptoms or specific risk factors like global laxity. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes, so it’s important to seek medical advice promptly if you suspect you may have hip issues like FAI or labral tears. Additionally, it’s important to follow your doctor’s post-surgery instructions and attend any recommended follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible recovery and long-term success.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for arthroscopy are those who have:

  1. Joint issues such as FAI or labral tears
  2. Significant symptoms impacting daily activities and sports performance
  3. A desire to improve their quality of life
  4. Early diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications
  5. Realistic expectations for the outcomes of the surgery

It is important for patients to discuss their individual circumstances with a healthcare provider to determine if arthroscopy is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before arthroscopy:

  1. Patient experiences hip pain and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination and imaging tests to diagnose the hip issue.
  3. Patient may try conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication.
  4. If symptoms persist, patient may be recommended for arthroscopy surgery.

After arthroscopy:

  1. Patient undergoes hip arthroscopy surgery to address FAI and labral tear.
  2. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation and physical therapy to aid in recovery.
  3. Patient experiences improvements in daily activities, sports performance, and quality of life.
  4. Some patients may require a second surgery, especially if they are female or have a history of symptoms and joint laxity.
  5. Long-term follow-up shows that most patients are satisfied with the results of their surgery, but the importance of early diagnosis and treatment is emphasized.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Here are some questions a patient should consider asking their doctor about arthroscopy for hip issues like FAI and labral tears:

  1. What are the potential benefits of arthroscopy for my specific hip issues?
  2. What are the potential risks or complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after arthroscopy for FAI and labral tears?
  4. What are the chances of needing a second surgery after the initial arthroscopy?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for arthroscopy?
  6. How experienced are you in performing arthroscopic hip surgeries for FAI and labral tears?
  7. Are there any specific factors about my condition (such as being female or having global laxity) that could affect the success of the surgery?
  8. What can I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
  9. How soon can I return to my normal daily activities, including sports, after arthroscopy?
  10. What long-term outcomes can I expect from arthroscopy for FAI and labral tears?

Reference

Authors: Menge TJ, Briggs KK, Rahl MD, Philippon MJ. Journal: Am J Sports Med. 2021 Jan;49(1):76-81. doi: 10.1177/0363546520973977. Epub 2020 Dec 1. PMID: 33259224