Arthroscopic Treatment of Labral Tears in Patients Aged 60 Years or Older
Authors
Redmond JM, Gupta A, Cregar WM, Hammarstedt JE, Gui C, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2015.03.032
Purpose
To evaluate outcomes of hip arthroscopy for labral tears in patients aged 60 or older and identify risk factors for conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA).
Methods
Prospective collection and retrospective review of 30 patients ≥60 years old undergoing hip arthroscopy, with minimum 2-year follow-up. Outcome measures included patient-reported outcomes (PROs), pain, satisfaction, revision surgery, and THA conversion rates.
Key Findings
- 2-year survivorship was 70%, with 9 patients converting to THA at a mean 1.1 years post-arthroscopy.
- PROs and pain scores improved significantly in the non-THA group.
- Risk factors for conversion to THA included poorer preoperative PRO scores, higher pain, greater acetabular inclination, and more severe cartilage damage.
Conclusion
Hip arthroscopy in patients aged 60+ should be approached cautiously; many patients improve, but a substantial subset converts to THA. Patient selection is critical.
What This Means for Patients
Older patients should be informed about the significant chance of needing hip replacement after arthroscopy, especially if they have poor baseline function or severe joint damage.