Intra-articular adhesions following hip arthroscopy: a risk factor analysis

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate possible risk factors for symptomatic adhesions after hip arthroscopy.

Methods

Data were analysed from hip arthroscopies performed between 2005 and 2009. Only primary hip arthroscopies were included. Data collected included demographics, primary treatment, rehabilitation, revision surgery, and presence of adhesions at revision.

Results

One thousand two hundred and sixty-four hips in patients 18 years or older underwent primary hip arthroscopy during the defined period. Eight underwent revision hip arthroscopy by a different surgeon. Patients under 30 years of age were 5.9 times more likely to be in the adhesion group 95 % CI 3.1–11.5]. Patients who underwent microfracture were 3.1 times less likely to have adhesions compared to patients who did not 95 % CI 1.1–8.2]. Patients who did not receive circumduction therapy were 4.1 times more likely to have adhesions compared to those who performed circumduction exercises 95 % CI 1.25–11.0].

Conclusion

Risk factors for adhesions following hip arthroscopy identified were age under 30, modified Harris Hip score under 50, no microfracture performed, and rehabilitation without circumduction.

Level of evidence

IV.