Acetabular Chondral Lesions in Hip Arthroscopy: Relationships Between Grade, Topography, and Demographics
Authors
Suarez-Ahedo C, Gui C, Rabe SM, Chandrasekaran S, Lodhia P, Domb BG
Journal: Am J Sports Med. 2017 Sep;45(11):2501–2506
DOI: 10.1177/0363546517708192
Background
Acetabular cartilage damage in hip arthroscopy may relate to patient factors such as age, sex, and BMI, but these associations are not well defined.
Methods
Cross-sectional analysis of 1,502 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Lesions were classified by ALAD grade, size, and clockface location. Multivariate regression assessed associations with demographics and lesion characteristics.
Key Findings
- Higher ALAD grades were significantly associated with male sex, older age, higher BMI, and larger lesions.
- Lesions were predominantly located in the anterosuperior quadrant and often coexisted with labral detachment or posterior extension.
Conclusions
Higher-grade cartilage damage is associated with specific demographic and anatomic risk factors. Recognizing these patterns may guide treatment and prognosis.
What Does This Mean for Patients
Patients who are older, male, or have a higher BMI may be more prone to severe cartilage damage. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions could improve outcomes.