Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopy in Patients Aged 50 Years or Older Compared with a Matched-Pair Control of Patients Aged 30 Years or Younger
Authors: Domb BG, Linder D, Finley Z, Botser IB, Chen A, Williamson J, Gupta A
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2014.08.030
Purpose
Compare clinical outcomes of hip arthroscopy between patients aged ≥50 and those ≤30 years old, with at least 2-year follow-up.
Methods
Prospective matched cohort study assessing patient-reported outcomes (PROs).
Key Findings
- Both age groups showed significant improvements in all PRO measures.
- No significant difference in magnitude of improvement or final scores.
- Hip arthroscopy survivorship (no THA conversion) was lower in older patients (82.7%) vs younger (98.1%).
Conclusion
Older patients with minimal arthritis can achieve similar functional gains as younger patients but have a higher risk of eventual hip replacement.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Don’t exclude patients aged ≥50 solely due to age if minimal arthritis is present.
- Counsel older patients about the benefits and risks, including higher likelihood of future THA.
- Use careful patient selection and set realistic expectations.