Workers' Compensation Patients Improved After Hip Arthroscopy for Labral Tears: A 5-Year Outcome Propensity Score-Matched Study
Authors: Sabetian PW, Monahan PF, Fox JD, Jimenez AE, Maldonado DR, Saks BR, Ankem HK, Lall AC, Domb BG
Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine, April 2022
DOI: 10.1177/03635465221078620
Background
Historically, workers' compensation (WC) patients have been associated with worse orthopedic surgical outcomes. This study evaluates the long-term efficacy of hip arthroscopy in WC patients with labral tears.
Methods
- WC patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy were matched with non-WC patients for baseline characteristics.
- PROs including mHHS, NAHS, HOS-SSS, and VAS were assessed over a minimum 5-year follow-up.
- Return to work and surgical revision rates were also analyzed.
Key Findings
- WC patients demonstrated significant improvements in PROs, though lower than non-WC counterparts at final follow-up.
- WC patients experienced greater magnitude of improvement, despite starting with worse baseline function.
- Revision and conversion to THA rates were not significantly different between groups.
- 66% of WC patients returned to work, averaging 9.5 months to heavy-duty tasks.
Conclusions
Hip arthroscopy in WC patients can yield substantial functional gains and favorable long-term outcomes, including return to work, even though their baseline function tends to be lower.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
WC status should not be a contraindication for hip arthroscopy. While outcomes may not match non-WC patients in absolute terms, WC patients still benefit significantly, both functionally and in return-to-work potential. Providers should counsel patients accordingly and manage expectations while advocating for early intervention when appropriate.