Hip Arthroplasty or Medical Management: A Challenging Treatment Decision for Younger Patients
Authors: Stake CE, Talbert PY, Hopkinson WJ, Daley RJ, Alden KJ, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1016/j.arth.2015.01.032
Purpose
To identify factors influencing treatment choice between total hip arthroplasty (THA) and medical management in symptomatic hip OA patients aged ≤50.
Methods
Comparative study of 71 patients choosing surgery or medical management; analyzed pain, activity restrictions, WOMAC scores.
Key Findings
- Pain severity was the strongest predictor for choosing surgery.
- Activity restrictions correlated with pain and influenced decisions.
- No significant difference in quality of life between groups.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Prioritize thorough pain and functional assessments when counseling younger hip OA patients on treatment options.
- Recognize that pain intensity and activity limitations heavily drive patients’ decisions toward surgery.
- Facilitate shared decision-making that balances symptom burden with expectations and risks of THA versus medical management.