A Matched-Pair Controlled Study of Microfracture of the Hip with Average 2-Year Follow-Up: Do Full-Thickness Chondral Defects Portend an Inferior Prognosis in Hip Arthroscopy?
Authors: Domb BG, Redmond JM, Dunne KF, Stake CE, Gupta A
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2014.10.011
Purpose
Compare outcomes of hip arthroscopy patients with microfracture for full-thickness cartilage defects to matched controls without such defects.
Methods
49 microfracture hips matched 1:2 to 98 controls; PRO scores, pain, satisfaction assessed at ~27 months.
Key Findings
- Both groups improved significantly post-op.
- Magnitude of improvement similar between groups.
- Microfracture group had slightly lower patient satisfaction.
- Outcomes similar regardless of acetabular or femoral microfracture.
Conclusion
Microfracture in full-thickness chondral defects yields similar clinical improvement at 2 years, though satisfaction may be marginally reduced.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Microfracture is a reasonable option for treating full-thickness cartilage damage during hip arthroscopy.
- Set patient expectations about potentially slightly lower satisfaction despite clinical improvement.
- Monitor outcomes carefully, as longer-term data may be needed.