Patient-Reported Outcome Scores and Rate of Return to Sport After Hip Arthroscopic Surgery: A Sex-Based Comparison in Professional and Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Glein RM, Jimenez AE, Miecznikowski KB, Saks BR, Ankem HK, Sabetian PW, Maldonado DR, Lall AC, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1177/03635465211039834
Background
Sex-based differences in hip arthroscopy outcomes among elite athletes have not been well studied. This research evaluates patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and return to sport (RTS) rates in male versus female collegiate and professional athletes treated for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).
Methods
Female athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy were matched to male counterparts based on age, sport level, and diagnosis. Outcomes were measured using standard PROs and RTS rates with a minimum 2-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Both male and female athletes had high RTS rates (~88%), with no significant sex-based difference.
- Female athletes demonstrated greater improvements in PROs and higher rates of achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID) compared to males.
- No difference in revision surgery rates was found between groups.
Conclusions
Female athletes achieve comparable RTS rates and may experience superior functional gains relative to male athletes after hip arthroscopy for FAI.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Do not expect diminished outcomes in female athletes undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAI; they may achieve equal or better symptom improvement than their male counterparts.
- Consider sex-specific expectations and goals when counseling elite athletes preoperatively.
- The findings support equitable surgical management strategies and tailored rehabilitation plans across sexes.