Tendon Disorders After Total Hip Arthroplasty: Evaluation and Management

Background

Most patients who undergo total hip arthroplasty are very satisfied with their outcomes. However, there is a small subset of patients who have persistent pain after surgery. The etiology of pain after total hip arthroplasty varies widely; however, tendon disorders are a major cause of debilitating pain that often go unrecognized.

Methods

We performed a literature review to identify the most common tendon pathologies after total hip arthroplasty which include iliopsoas tendinitis, greater trochanteric pain syndrome, snapping hip syndrome, and abductor tendinopathy.

Results

We present a simplified approach highlighting the presentation and management of patients with suspected tendinopathies after total hip arthroplasty. These tendinopathies are treatable, and management begins with nonoperative modalities; however, in cases not responsive to conservative management, operative intervention may be necessary.

Conclusion

Tendinopathies after total hip arthroplasty sometimes go unrecognized but when treated can result in higher surgeon and patient satisfaction.