Influence of Capsular Repair Versus Unrepaired Capsulotomy on 2-Year Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic Hip Preservation Surgery
Authors: Domb BG, Stake CE, Finley ZJ, Chen T, Giordano BD
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2014.10.014
Purpose
Evaluate impact of capsular repair vs. leaving the capsule unrepaired on clinical outcomes after hip arthroscopy.
Methods
Retrospective review of 403 patients (168 repair, 235 no repair) with minimum 2-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Both groups had significant improvement in outcomes.
- Capsular repair group was younger with lower BMI and better baseline scores.
- When controlling for confounders, no significant difference in outcomes between groups.
Conclusion
Capsular repair is safe but offers no clear clinical advantage over leaving the capsule unrepaired.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Capsular repair can be performed safely without compromising outcomes.
- Decision to repair capsule may be individualized based on surgeon preference and patient factors.
- More research may clarify if specific patient subsets benefit more from repair.