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: American Journal of Sports Medicine
DOI: 10.1177/0363546517708192
Background
Acetabular chondral damage is commonly encountered during hip arthroscopy, and understanding predictive demographic and anatomic factors may inform preoperative planning.
Methods
Cross-sectional study of 1,502 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Cartilage lesions were classified by ALAD grade, size, and clockface location. Associations with demographics were analyzed.
Key Findings
- Higher ALAD grades correlated with male sex, older age, higher BMI, and larger lesion size.
- Most lesions were located in the anterosuperior quadrant and often accompanied by labral detachment or posterior extension.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Providers should recognize demographic risk factors (older age, male sex, high BMI) for more advanced chondral damage.
- This may guide prognostication, patient counseling, and influence surgical strategy (e.g., need for cartilage restoration techniques).
- Early detection and intervention in high-risk patients could improve long-term outcomes.