Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome and Labral Tears in Competitive Soccer Players Shows Significant Functional Improvement and High Return-to-Sport Rates at Mid-Term Follow-Up
Author(s):Quesada-Jimenez R, Strok MJ, Schab AR, Becker N, Kahana-Rojkind AH, Domb BG.
DOI Link: 10.1016/j.arthro.2025.07.012
Background
Competitive soccer players place high rotational and repetitive load demands on the hip, making femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and labral tears common sources of performance limitation. This study evaluated mid-term outcomes and return-to-sport (RTS) rates after hip arthroscopy in competitive soccer players.
Methods
This Level IV retrospective case series reviewed patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS and labral tears between 2008 and 2019. Inclusion required competitive soccer participation and minimum 5-year follow-up data or documented endpoint. Outcomes included validated PROs (mHHS, NAHS, HOS-SSS, iHOT-12, VAS) and return-to-sport rates, with subgroup analysis by sex and competitive level.
Key Findings
- 65 patients (74 hips) included
- Significant improvements across all PROs (P < .01)
- MCID achievement rates:
- mHHS: 81.7%
- NAHS: 78.9%
- HOS-SSS: 83.8%
- iHOT-12: 92.6%
- PASS achievement rates ranged ~65–76% depending on score
- RTS to soccer: 87.0% overall
- 1% of those returning continued playing at 5 years
- No differences in RTS based on sex or competitive level
Conclusion
Hip arthroscopy for FAIS and labral tears in competitive soccer players yields durable mid-term functional improvement and high return-to-sport rates, with a substantial proportion maintaining participation at 5 years.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Competitive soccer athletes can expect meaningful and durable improvements after hip arthroscopy, with high likelihood of returning to sport. Outcomes appear consistent regardless of sex or competition level, supporting arthroscopy as an effective intervention for athletic FAIS populations.