Outcomes of Staged Bilateral Hip Arthroscopic Surgery in the Context of Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: A Nested Matched-Pair Control Study Focusing on the Effect of Time Between Procedures
Authors: Ankem HK, Diulus SC, Kyin C, Jimenez AE, Saks BR, Sabetian PW, Maldonado DR, Lall AC, Domb BG
Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine, September 2022
DOI: 10.1177/03635465221108955
Background
This study assesses outcomes of staged bilateral hip arthroscopy for FAIS and evaluates how the interval between surgeries affects recovery compared to unilateral surgery.
Methods
- 205 patients undergoing staged bilateral hip arthroscopy matched to unilateral surgery patients.
- Outcomes measured included modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), HOS-SSS, and pain at minimum 2-year follow-up.
- Compared outcomes based on timing between staged procedures (<3 months vs. >3 months).
Key Findings
- Both bilateral and unilateral groups showed similar significant improvements in PROs.
- Timing between bilateral procedures did not significantly impact final outcomes.
Conclusions
Staged bilateral hip arthroscopy produces outcomes comparable to unilateral procedures, and the interval between surgeries does not influence recovery or function at midterm follow-up.
What Does This Mean for Providers
- Counsel patients that bilateral hip arthroscopy is an effective option with outcomes equivalent to unilateral surgery.
- Surgical timing between hips can be flexible without compromising patient-reported outcomes.
- Supports individualized surgical planning based on patient preference, recovery capacity, and logistical considerations.