Study recommends 4 to 6 weeks between bilateral hip arthroscopies for FAIs, labral tears
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For high-level athletes with bilateral femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears, staged bilateral hip arthroscopy performed 4 to six weeks apart is a safe and effective treatment option, according to a study by researchers in the department of orthopedics at Mayo Clinic Arizona.
Of 50 patients, 22 were placed in the accelerated surgery (AS) group (a 4- to 6- week interval between procedures) and 28 patients were in the standard surgery (SS) group (less than a 6-week interval). The AS group had a greater mean age and number of collegiate participants. The SS group had a greater number of high school participants and longer time away from sports, according to the study.
Researchers found no substantial differences in results from the standard staged timeline vs. the accelerated timeline.
“Preoperative alpha angles were significantly larger among the AS group, but no differences were found in postoperative alpha angles, center edge angles, or Tönnis grades,” the researchers wrote. “No significant difference was seen in patient-reported outcomes between the two groups at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up.”
Researchers suggested a 4- to 6-week interval between procedures remains the most effective timeline to ensure a fast and full recovery.
“The procedures entail a high rate of return to sports, return to the same level of sports, and decreased time lost from sports. This information could be useful for an athlete deciding on whether to proceed with bilateral hip arthroscopy and deciding on the timing for the procedures,” they wrote. – by Max Wursta
Disclosures: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
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