Return to Play After Hip Arthroscopy Among Tennis Players: Outcomes with Minimum Five-Year Follow-up
Authors: Maldonado DR, Yelton MJ, Rosinsky PJ, Shapira J, Meghpara MB, Lall AC, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03424-w
Background
Tennis players are at risk for hip injuries such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and labral tears. While short-term outcomes of hip arthroscopy are favorable in athletes, this study assesses long-term return to sport (RTS) specifically in tennis players.
Methods
This retrospective review followed 28 tennis players who underwent hip arthroscopy for FAI and labral pathology, tracking patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and RTS rates after ≥5 years.
Key Findings
- Significant improvements were noted in pain and hip function.
- 75% of players returned to tennis, with high satisfaction rates.
- Competitive and recreational players had similar postoperative outcomes.
Conclusions
Hip arthroscopy offers sustained functional improvement and high RTS rates in tennis players, irrespective of competition level.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Orthopedic providers can counsel tennis players that hip arthroscopy has durable outcomes and a strong likelihood of return to sport. RTS expectations should be set appropriately, but competitive players can anticipate results comparable to recreational athletes. Consider sport-specific rehab in the recovery protocol.