Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery in Patients With Tönnis Grade 1 Osteoarthritis at a Minimum 5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Domb BG, Chaharbakhshi EO, Rybalko D, Close MR, Litrenta J, Perets I
Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine
DOI: 10.1177/0363546517706957
Background
The influence of mild osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade 1) on mid- to long-term outcomes following hip arthroscopy for FAI and labral pathology is not well established.
Methods
Retrospective matched-pair analysis comparing 85 patients with Tönnis grade 1 OA to 62 matched controls with Tönnis grade 0, minimum 5-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Both groups demonstrated significant and durable improvements in pain and function scores.
- Tönnis 1 patients showed a higher conversion rate to total hip arthroplasty (30.6% vs. 11.6%).
- No significant difference in postoperative patient-reported outcomes between groups.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Mild OA (Tönnis grade 1) should not be considered an absolute contraindication for hip arthroscopy.
- Counsel patients on increased risk of progression to hip arthroplasty, despite potential symptomatic benefit.
- Use patient selection and shared decision-making to set realistic expectations for functional outcomes and longevity of benefit.