Results of labral-level arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies for the treatment of labral impingement

Iliopsoas Injections: A Systematic Review of Patient Outcomes and Progression to Surgery

BACKGROUND

Iliopsoas injuries are a common cause of anterior hip and groin pain and can be successfully managed with conservative treatment. Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injections can also be offered in conjunction with nonoperative management. Given the variability in reported injection guidelines, composition, and techniques, the purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature to assess progression to surgery and patient outcomes following iliopsoas injections.

METHODS

Four online databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Scopus) were searched for studies investigating the outcomes of iliopsoas injections from database inception until January 2024 in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Meta-Analyses guidelines. Three reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles independently and in duplicate. Recorded data included demographic data, patient-reported outcomes, complications, injection traits, and progression to surgery.

RESULTS

Six articles were included in the review (follow-up time = 28.6 months). These studies included patients with iliopsoas bursitis, tendinopathy, and snapping hip. Five studies used the iliopsoas bursa as the injection target. All studies used local anesthetics in their injection formulations, with 5 also adding a corticosteroid. In 3 studies, the Numeric Rating Scale improved from preinjection (mean = 7.33) to postinjection (mean = 2.47). Three studies demonstrated an improvement in Harris Hip Score from a mean of 58.49 preinjection to 89.91 postinjection. Following injections, 28.9% (68/235) of patients progressed to surgery, with psoas tenotomy (38.3%, 26/68) being the most common procedure. There were no complications reported in all of the included studies.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that iliopsoas injections are a clinically effective treatment of a variety of pathologies, including bursitis, tendinopathy, and snapping hip, and have a low rate of complications. Physicians should consider using iliopsoas injections in patients whose symptoms are refractory to conservative management, including physical therapy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The role of iliopsoas fractional lengthening in hip arthroscopy: a systematic review

Arthroscopic iliopsoas fractional lengthening (IFL) is a surgical option for the treatment of internal snapping hip syndrome (ISHS) after failing conservative management. Systematic review. A search of PubMed central, National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE) and Scopus databases were performed by two individuals from the date of inception to April 2023. Inclusion criteria were ISHS treated with arthroscopy. Sample size, patient-reported outcomes and complications were recorded for 24 selected papers. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed and registered on PROSPERO database for systematic reviews (CRD42023427466). Thirteen retrospective case series, ten retrospective comparative studies, and one randomized control trial from 2005 to 2022 were reported on 1021 patients who received an iliopsoas fractional lengthening. The extracted data included patient satisfaction, visual analogue scale, the modified Harris hip score and additional outcome measures. All 24 papers reported statistically significant improvements in post-operative patient-reported outcome measures after primary hip arthroscopy and iliopsoas fractional lengthening. However, none of the comparative studies found a statistical benefit in performing IFL. Existing studies lack conclusive evidence on the benefits of Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening (IFL), especially for competitive athletes, individuals with Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI), and borderline hip dysplasia. Some research suggests IFL may be a safe addition to hip arthroscopy for Internal Snapping Hip Syndrome, but more comprehensive investigations are needed. Future studies should distinguish between concurrent procedures and develop methods to determine if the psoas muscle is the source of pain, instead of solely attributing it to the joint.

Bilateral psoas release for long standing hip-spine syndrome: surgical technique and case report

Background

Severe positive sagittal malalignment can potentially lead to shortening and contracture of the psoas and joint capsule in a flexed spinopelvic position. The utilization of bilateral psoas release to supplement sagittal spinal deformity correction in the same hospitalization was not reported in the literature.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old patient presented with a 5-year history of severe global spinal deformity (sagittal vertical axis 220 mm, 60° spinopelvic mismatch) that did not improve on supine radiographs, and a modified Thomas test with more than 30° flexion contracture of bilateral hips. A 3-stage operation utilizing posterior spinal column osteotomies, anterior lumbar interbody fusion, and bilateral psoas releases was performed.

Outcome

Her postoperative alignment significantly improved and she was pleased with her new posture and the ability to stand up straight.

Conclusions

This report is the first to demonstrate safe and substantial correction of severe spinal deformities associated with bilateral hip flexion contracture in 1 hospitalization.

Arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies: a systematic review of surgical technique and outcomes

PURPOSE

To evaluate the technique, results and complications of arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies either on native hips or total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using 3 databases: PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane library from January 2000 to December 2018 in accordance with the PRISMA procedure. The literature search, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by 2 independent reviewers. Surgical technique, clinical outcomes, recurrences and complication rate were evaluated.

RESULTS

Out of 115 articles reviewed, 20 articles concerned native hips and 8 articles THA. 3 levels of release were described. For native hips, the recurrence rate was higher for central compartment than peripheral or lesser trochanter releases. Complication rates were similar for hip arthroscopy but remained low in all series. Loss of strength was evaluated mainly using the MRC muscle scale. Most studies noted strength recovery. MRI analysis of muscle atrophy was greater for lesser trochanter than for central compartment release but unrelated to loss of strength. The complication rate was low for tenotomy after THA, heterotopic ossification being the most common complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Central compartment releases lead to the highest rate of recurrence due to incomplete release. Peripheral releases have a potential risk of vascular injury. The lesser trochanteric approach has the disadvantage of not having direct access to the joint. The main difficulty with THA lies in the diagnosis of cup/iliopsoas impingement. Diagnostic tests with infiltration should be made before iliopsoas release to prevent its failure. Cup protrusion of over 8mm is a potential indication for acetabular revision.

Iliopsoas Release: A Systematic Review of Clinical Efficacy and Associated Complications

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review of the findings of iliopsoas release as it relates to resolution of snapping, improvement of groin pain, and associated complications.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

DATA SOURCES

Four electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched, identifying all literature pertaining to surgical treatment of a snapping hip/coxa saltans, iliopsoas impingement, or iliopsoas tendinitis. A total of 818 studies were identified. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full-text articles for eligibility.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All studies published in English that reported on iliopsoas release for snapping hip/coxa saltans, iliopsoas impingement, or iliopsoas tendinitis reporting outcomes or associated complications were eligible.

RESULTS

A total of 48 articles were included in this review. Three surgical indications were identified for iliopsoas release, internal snapping hip, labral tear secondary to iliopsoas impingement, and iliopsoas tendinopathy after total hip arthroplasty. Arthroscopic techniques seemed to be superior to open techniques with regards to reoccurrence of snapping (5.1% vs 21.7%) and groin pain relief (89.1% vs 85.6%) with fewer complications (4.2% vs 21.1%) overall.

CONCLUSIONS

Both open and arthroscopic iliopsoas releases have been shown to be successful treatment options regardless of the surgical indications identified in this review. Arthroscopic release demonstrated a decreased failure rate, fewer complications, and improved outcomes when compared with open procedures.

Tenotomy for Iliopsoas Pathology is Infrequently Performed and Associated with Poorer Outcomes in Hips Undergoing Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article was to report prevalence of iliopsoas pathology in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), incidence of rendered tenotomy, and outcomes of hips with iliopsoas involvement compared with those with primary FAI.

METHODS

A cohort study from a hip arthroscopy study group using a prospectively-collected multicenter database was performed. Patients who underwent isolated hip arthroscopy for FAI from January 2016 to March 2017 were assigned to the Iliopsoas group (defined as preoperative diagnosis of coxa saltans internus, intraoperative anteroinferior labral bruising or tear, and preoperative positive psoas injection) or control group. The prevalence of iliopsoas pathology, radiographic and intraoperative findings, and rendered procedures between groups were compared. Mean 2-year (minimum 1.8 year) outcomes of iliopsoas groups with and without rendered tenotomy and a control group were compared.

RESULTS

There were 1393 subjects, of which 92 (7%) comprised the iliopsoas study group with 1301 subjects control subjects. Sixteen subjects in the iliopsoas group received tenotomy (17% of iliopsoas group, 1% of all subjects), whereas 76 subjects (83% of iliopsoas group) with iliopsoas involvement did not. There was significant effect on postoperative International Hip Outcome Tool-12 (iHOT-12) scores based on iliopsoas involvement and treatment, F(2,1390) = 3.74, P = .02. Compared with the control group (M = 73, standard deviation [SD] = 24), the non-tenotomized iliopsoas group (M = 69, SD = 32) had similar postoperative scores (P = .46), whereas the tenotomized iliopsoas group (M = 57, SD = 28) averaged lower postoperative scores (P = .03). In the tenotomy group, 25% achieved the iHOT-12 substantial clinical benefit and patient acceptable symptomatic state value for normal function and 100% satisfaction, compared to 49% and 41% for the without tenotomy and control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Tenotomy in patients with iliopsoas pathology undergoing arthroscopic surgery for FAI is infrequently performed and is associated with poorer outcomes. Co-afflicted patients treated without tenotomy have similar successful outcomes to patients with primary FAI. Indiscriminate tenotomy for iliopsoas pathology in this setting should be cautiously considered.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, cohort study.

Iliopsoas Tenotomy During Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review of Postoperative Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic iliopsoas tendon release is a surgical treatment option for painful snapping hips, although it has been associated with controversy surrounding potential complications including decreased hip flexion strength, iatrogenic hip instability, and iliopsoas atrophy.

PURPOSE

To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomy during hip arthroscopic surgery as an intervention for painful snapping hips.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A total of 3 online databases (Embase, PubMed, and MEDLINE) were searched from database inception until September 2019 for studies investigating iliopsoas tenotomy during hip arthroscopic surgery. Studies were screened by 2 reviewers independently and in duplicate, and studies investigating arthroscopic iliopsoas tendon release were included. Demographic data as well as data on treatment success, functional outcome scores, and radiological outcomes were recorded. A risk of bias assessment was performed for all included studies.

RESULTS

Overall, 21 studies were identified with a total of 824 patients (875 hips). These patients were 82.5% female (680/824), with a mean age of 28.1 years (range, 12-62 years) and mean follow-up of 32.1 months (range, 3-73 months). Arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomy was performed at the level of the labrum in 811 hips (92.7%) or the lesser trochanter in 64 hips (7.3%). The overall reported success rate of the procedure in resolving snapping hips was 93.0% (266/286), and all studies reported an improvement in functional outcome scores. Only 6 studies (93 hips) discussed postoperative hip flexion strength, with complete recovery of strength reported in 4 studies (47 hips) and mild decreases reported in the other 2 studies (46 hips). Iliopsoas atrophy was evaluated radiologically (3 studies; 66 hips) and was found postoperatively in 92.4% (61/66) of hips. No major complications were reported.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic release of the iliopsoas tendon was effective in alleviating pain and persistent clicking associated with a snapping hip. Although patients demonstrated some early postoperative weakness and iliopsoas atrophy on radiological imaging, the results from studies to date showed satisfactory clinical function and return to sports/activities. High-quality comparative studies are needed to further assess arthroscopic iliopsoas tendon release to determine the optimal technique and location of tendon release.

Hip arthroscopy in France: An epidemiological study of postoperative care and outcomes involving 3699 patients

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that is becoming more and more prevalent in France. Even though indications are now well-established little is still known about patient outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of our retrospective study was to: (1) describe the circumstances in which hip arthroscopies are being performed; (2) study arthroscopy and arthroplasty reoperation rates; (3) assess the incidence of readmissions for complications.

HYPOTHESIS

Hip arthroscopy in France produced similar results to those observed in other countries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a cohort study from January 2008 to December 2014 in the French population using the national hospital discharge database called "Programme de médicalisation des systèmes d'information (PMSI)." We included all admissions that had a hip arthroscopy code and analyzed readmissions for conversion to hip arthroplasty, revision hip arthroscopy and complications (without being able to provide detailed descriptions). Risk factors associated with conversion, revision and readmission for complications were studied after performing a population analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 3,699 patients were included over a period of seven years. The mean age was 40 years, with women being significantly older (mean age of 43 years) than men (38 years) (p<0.05). The number of procedures increased from 240 in 2008 to 702 in 2014. Synovectomies (67.9%; 2514/3699) and surgical bone procedures (acetabuloplasty or femoroplasty) (47.3%; 1751/3699) were the main procedures performed during the primary arthroscopy. In total, 410 patients underwent a conversion to arthroplasty, 231 patients had a revision arthroscopy, and 126 patients suffered a complication. Five years after the index procedure, the conversion rate was 16.3%, revision rate was 8.2%, and readmission rate for a postoperative complication was 5%. The main risk factor associated with conversions was [Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% Confidence Index (CI)] an age between 40 and 79 years during the first arthroscopy [3.04 (2.40; 3.87) compared with the reference class of 25-39 years]. Patients between ages 16 to 24 years during the first arthroscopy (0.35 [0.20; 0.61] compared with the reference class of 25-39 years) had a decreased risk of conversion (HR and 95% CI). The main risk factors associated with revisions were: synovectomies [1.90 (1.34; 2.70)] and surgical bone procedures on the femoral neck and/or the acetabulum [1.82 (1.36; 2.4)]. The risk factor associated with complication-related readmissions was an age greater than 40 years [2.23 (1.43; 3.49)].

CONCLUSION

Unlike the international literature, our study population was largely male. The rates of revision (8.2% after five years) and conversion to arthroplasty (16.3% after five years) were relatively low and comparable to the different international studies. This procedure, which is not widely performed, is growing in popularity, has low morbidity and remains an interesting approach given the revision and conversion rates after five years. The implementation of specific coding for arthroscopic hip procedures and the pathologies to be treated seems warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV; descriptive epidemiological study.

Is the Iliopsoas a Femoral Head Stabilizer? A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review of biomechanical and clinical studies to determine whether the iliopsoas is a femoral head stabilizer.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria were any human clinical (Levels I-IV evidence) or laboratory studies that investigated the role of the iliopsoas as a stabilizer of the hip. Exclusion criteria included studies that investigated patients undergoing spine surgery or those with a total hip arthroplasty or hip hemiarthroplasty. Study methodologic quality for clinical-outcomes studies were analyzed using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score. Because of the heterogeneity in the participants and interventions, no quantitative assimilative meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Eight articles were analyzed (3 biomechanical [35 cadavers and 18 healthy subjects]; 5 clinical outcomes studies [537 subjects, 207 arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies]). Two in vivo biomechanical studies identified the iliopsoas as an anterior hip stabilizer. One cadaveric study identified the iliopsoas as a femoral head stabilizer at 0o-15o of hip flexion. Two clinical studies demonstrated the role of the iliopsoas as a dynamic hip stabilizer, particularly in patients with increased femoral version (greater than 15˚-25˚). Two studies reported cases of atraumatic anterior hip dislocations after arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from biomechanical and clinical studies may suggest that the iliopsoas is a dynamic anterior femoral head stabilizer.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level III and IV plus biomechanical studies.

How has arthroscopic management of the iliopsoas evolved, and why? A survey of high-volume arthroscopic hip surgeons

The rapid growth of hip preservation has left surgeons following trends based on limited, or even anecdotal, evidence in certain circumstances. A consensus as well as high-level research on how best to manage the iliopsoas is lacking. Arthroscopic treatment of the iliopsoas may be an example of how treatment patterns and trends can shift with limited evidence-based medicine. A cross-sectional survey of 16 high-volume hip preservation surgeons was conducted to gather perspectives and opinions on how and why the arthroscopic management of the iliopsoas has evolved. All participants completed the survey in person and anonymously. Of the surveyed surgeons, the mean career hip preservation volume was 1031.25 cases (250 to >3000) with an average annual volume of 162.08 cases (75–400). Of the surveyed surgeons’ caseload, 16.1% involved an iliopsoas tenotomy or fractional lengthening mostly commonly (75%) for recalcitrant internal snapping. Labral repair/reconstruction is performed concomitantly 87.5% of the time. Seventy-five percent of surgeons indicated a decrease in frequency of iliopsoas tenotomy over the course of their practice most commonly (56.3%) because of hip flexion weakness; however, 0% of the surgeons could cite literature evidence to support their practices. Perceived poor outcomes in individual practices was the most common (56.3%) source of this complication. Surgeons were less inclined to perform tenotomy on patients with borderline dysplasia (75%) or ligamentous laxity (56.3%).

Severe Weakness of Hip Flexor after Iliopsoas Tenotomy: Two Case Reports

Hip arthroscopies are becoming a standard surgical technique, with psoas tenotomy being a relatively common procedure during this operation. A 37-year-old male and a 42-year-old female with internal hip snapping came to our department. Arthroscopic partial psoas tenotomy of the iliopsoas portion of the conjoint tendon was performed, but its results were bad. Patients reported preoperative unilateral low-back pain and weakness when flexing the hip. Unilateral atrophy of the lumbar psoas and fatty multifidus were detected in both cases. Patients at risk of unsatisfactory outcomes after psoas tenotomy should be ideally identified prior to surgery. Warning symptoms, physical examination, and imaging studies should be considered to avoid unsatisfactory results.

non-arthroplasty iliopsoas impingement in athletes: a narrative literature review

INTRODUCTION

Iliopsoas impingement occurs secondary to a tight iliopsoas tendon that causes impingement during movement. This review presents current aspects regarding the diagnosis of iliopsoas impingement and also exposes the readers to the possible anatomic and clinical variations together with the available treatment options.

METHODS

We conducted a narrative literature review with regard to non-arthroplasty iliopsoas impingement.

RESULTS

Iliopsoas impingement is characterised by a distinct pattern of labral pathology, with anteriorly localised labral damage, that does not extend to the anterosuperior portion of the acetabulum. Anterior groin pain and intermittent catching, snapping or popping of the hip are common symptoms. Non-specific focal tenderness is often found over the iliopsoas tendon at the level of the anterior aspect of the joint. The 'C-sign' and Impingment test are usually positive. Dynamic ultrasonography is also useful for confirming the diagnosis. Initial management of painful iliopsoas impingement should be conservative. When patients continue to have pain, an ultrasound-guided injection can provide relief and predict the response to the surgical release. For patients who have recurrent pain after local injection of steroids, arthroscopic release has shown to achieve effective results.

CONCLUSIONS

Although different treatment options for iliopsoas impingement are emerging, the current standard of therapy is conservative followed by an arthroscopic tenotomy if necessary. Young adult hip surgeons should always keep this differential in mind in a patient presenting with groin pain and mechanical symptoms.

Extra-articular hip impingement: clinical presentation, radiographic findings and surgical treatment outcomes

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome is classically thought of as either a cam or pincer deformity causing abnormal bony contact resulting in labral pathology. However, alternate patterns of hip impingement can occur, but tend to be less commonly recognized or studied. Collectively termed 'extra-articular impingement', four subgroups of impingement can contribute to non-arthritic hip pain and disability: iliopsoas impingement, subspine impingement, ischiofemoral impingement and trochanteric-pelvic impingement. The purpose of this review article is to highlight the pertinent points to aid in proper clinical and radiographic evaluation to allow appropriate diagnosis. Additionally, a review of potential surgical treatment options and resultant outcomes will also be provided.

Does Iliopsoas Lengthening Adversely Affect Clinical Outcomes After Hip Arthroscopy? A Multicenter Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Iliopsoas fractional lengthening (IFL) continues to be a controversial procedure in hip arthroscopy.

HYPOTHESIS

Patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and a labral tear either with or without IFL would experience favorable outcomes, and there would be no difference in postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs) between the 2 groups at minimum 2-year follow-up.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Data from July 2009 and April 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were eligible if they had hip arthroscopy for both FAI and labral tear treatment with IFL and without IFL. IFL was indicated for painful internal snapping. Minimum postoperative follow-up was set to 2 years. The authors calculated the modified Harris Hip Score, International Hip Outcome Tool-12, Hip Outcome Score-Activity of Daily Living Score, Hip Outcome Score-Sports Specific Subscale, Non-Arthritic Hip Score, visual analog scale for pain, patient satisfaction, minimal clinically important difference (MCID), and the percentage of patients who achieved patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS). Revision surgeries and conversions to total hip arthroplasty (THA) were documented.

RESULTS

351 hips (307 patients) met the necessary inclusion criteria in the IFL cohort, with a mean ± SD follow-up time of 42.5 ± 18.1 months. For the control cohort, 392 hips (354 patients) were included, with a mean ± SD follow-up time of 43.9 ± 19.6 months. Both groups showed significant postoperative improvement in 2-year follow-up PROs. The group with iliopsoas lengthening showed comparable results to the control group with respect to PRO improvement, MCID, PASS, and rates of revision or THA conversion.

CONCLUSION

This comparative cohort study demonstrated that treatment of painful internal snapping syndrome with arthroscopic IFL, in the setting of FAI and a labral tear, is a safe procedure with good short- to mid-term follow-up results and associated improvement in PROs. Patients who underwent IFL showed similar outcomes compared with a control group treated for FAI and labral tear without IFL. In appropriately selected patients, arthroscopic IFL did not adversely affect clinical outcomes compared with patients who did not need IFL.

[Arthroscopic treatment of psoas impingement]

OBJECTIVE

Tenotomy of the psoas tendon in symptomatic internal coxa saltans or psoas impingement should relieve pain.

INDICATIONS

Indicated in conservative treatment-resistant internal coxa saltans and in psoas impingement.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Contraindications are symptomatic psoas pathologies in hip dysplasia patients.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Three different procedures exist with the arthroscopic technique, in which the psoas tenotomy can be performed at one of three different levels. These are the arthroscopic transcapsular, the endoscopic extra-articular, and the arthroscopic central techniques.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Forearm crutches are recommended for approximately 2-4 weeks as well as physiotherapy to strengthen the hip flexors.

RESULTS

A literature-based comparison could reveal no difference between the extra-articular and transcapsular techniques. Particularly in the long term was no loss of strength evident. Various different authors describe the techniques as good, finding neither complications nor recurrence of internal snapping hip.

Extra-articular hip impingement: a review of the literature

Hip and groin pain is a common clinical problem. Multiple causes can generate hip or groin pain, often sharing clinical and demographic characteristics. Diagnostic imaging tests play an important role in the etiological diagnosis. New forms of extra-articular hip impingement have recently been recognized as a cause of hip pain and limited function especially in young active patients. These conditions include ischiofemoral impingement, anterior inferior iliac spine and subspine impingement, iliopsoas impingement and greater trochanteric-pelvic impingement. In general, they are caused by a mechanical conflict with an abnormal or excessive contact between the proximal femur and pelvis and/or soft tissue between them. In this manuscript we review the physiopathology, clinical presentation, the most common radiologic findings and treatment of these forms of extra-articular hip impingement.

Indications for Hip Arthroscopy

CONTEXT

Hip arthroscopy is gaining popularity within the field of orthopaedic surgery. The development and innovation of hip-specific arthroscopic instrumentation and improved techniques has resulted in improved access to the hip joint and ability to treat various hip pathologies.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Electronic databases, including PubMed and MEDLINE, were queried for articles relating to hip arthroscopy indications (1930-2017).

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical review.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

RESULTS

Initially used as a technique for loose body removal, drainage/debridement of septic arthritis, and treatment of pediatric hip disorders, hip arthroscopy is currently used to treat various hip conditions. The recognition of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) as a source of hip pain in young adults has rapidly expanded hip arthroscopy by applying the principles of osseous correction that were previously described and demonstrated via an open surgical dislocation approach. Hip pathologies can be divided into central compartment, peripheral compartment, peritrochanteric space, and subgluteal space disorders.

CONCLUSION

Although hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that may offer decreased morbidity, diminished risk of neurovascular injury, and shorter recovery periods compared with traditional open exposures to the hip, it is important to understand the appropriate patient selection and indications.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Appearance of the Hip Musculature After Arthroscopic Labral-Level Iliopsoas Tenotomies

BACKGROUND

Iliopsoas (IP) muscle atrophy is a known consequence of open IP tenotomy, but the severity of IP muscle atrophy that occurs after arthroscopic labral-level IP tenotomies has not been documented.

PURPOSE

To document the severity of muscle atrophy that occurs in the iliacus, psoas, and adjacent hip musculature after arthroscopic labral-level IP tenotomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients who had magnetic resonance arthrograms (MRAs) obtained prior to and 3 months to 5 years after arthroscopic labral-level IP tenotomies are the basis of this report. The pre- and postoperative MRAs of each patient were examined in consensus by 2 musculoskeletal radiologists who graded the postoperative muscle atrophy from 0 (no fatty infiltration) to 4 (>75% fatty infiltration) and noted any compensatory muscle hypertrophy or abnormal IP tendon morphology. Patients also were assessed with the Byrd 100-point modified Harris Hip Scoring system (MHHS) preoperatively and at the time of their postoperative MRA.

RESULTS

Postoperative MRAs were obtained on average 1.7 years (range, 3 months to 5 years) after hip arthroscopy. None of the patients had muscle atrophy on their preoperative MRAs. In contrast, 89% of patients had iliacus and psoas muscle atrophy on their postoperative MRAs, but only 2 (7%) developed grade 4 atrophy, and the majority (64%) had either grade 1 (n = 15) or no atrophy (n = 3). In addition, there were no significant differences in the MHHS of the patients with mild (grades 0-1), moderate (grades 2-3), or severe (grade 4) postoperative atrophy. Postoperative MRAs also demonstrated low-grade atrophy (grades 1-2) in the quadratus femoris (n = 5) and rectus femoris (n = 1) muscles, and 16 patients (57%) had distortion of the tendon, but none had a gap in their tendon.

CONCLUSION

A majority of patients (89%) developed IP muscle atrophy after arthroscopic labral-level IP tenotomies, and although this percentage was similar (89% vs 90%) to that reported with lesser trochanteric IP tenotomies, the patients did not (1) develop atrophy of the gluteus maximus and vastus lateralis muscles, (2) have chronic IP tendon disruption, or (3) develop the severity of IP atrophy (55% grade 4 vs 7% grade 4) that has been reported after arthroscopic lesser trochanteric IP tenotomies.

Current concepts in the diagnosis and management of extra-articular hip impingement syndromes

PURPOSE

Extra-articular hip impingement syndromes encompass a group of conditions that have previously been an unrecognised source of pain in the hip and on occasion been associated with intra-articular hip impingement as well. As arthroscopic techniques for the hip continue to evolve, the importance of these conditions has been recognised recently and now form an important part of the differential of an individual presenting with hip pain. The aim of this article, therefore, is to provide the reader with an evidence-based and comprehensive update of these syndromes.

METHODS

By reviewing past literature, the anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical features and the management of the five common extra-articular hip impingement syndromes were described.

RESULTS

The common extra-articular impingement syndromes are: 1) Ischiofemoral impingement: quadratus femoris muscle becomes compressed between the lesser trochanter and the ischial tuberosity. 2) Subspine impingement: mechanical conflict occurs between an enlarged or malorientated anterior inferior iliac spine and the distal anterior femoral neck. 3) Iliopsoas impingement: mechanical conflict occurs between the iliopsoas muscle and the labrum, resulting in distinct anterior labral pathology. 4) Deep gluteal syndrome: pain occurs in the buttock due to the entrapment of the sciatic nerve in the deep gluteal space. 5) Pectineofoveal impingement: pain occurs when the medial synovial fold impinges against overlying soft tissue, primarily the zona orbicularis. Knowledge for these syndromes still remains limited for reasons mostly relating to their low prevalence and their co-existence with typical femoro-acetabular impingement.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge of extra-articular hip impingement syndromes is essential and should form a part of the differential diagnoses alongside intra-articular pathology including femoro-acetabular impingement particularly in the younger patient with a non-arthritic hip.

Arthroscopic Psoas Management: Techniques for Psoas Preservation and Psoas Tenotomy

The iliopsoas tendon is an important dynamic stabilizer of the hip joint, and it should be carefully identified and preserved during routine hip arthroscopy. However, it may also be a source of hip pain manifesting as iliopsoas tendinitis or a snapping hip or contributing to the development of labral pathology caused by psoas impingement. In the appropriately indicated, refractory cases of iliopsoas-related hip pain, surgical intervention in the form of an iliopsoas tenotomy at the level of the labrum can result in reliable pain relief. We describe a method to identify and protect the iliopsoas tendon during routine hip arthroscopy when preservation is desired. In addition, we detail how to deepen the psoas tunnel if psoas impingement is present but psoas tenotomy is contraindicated. We also describe a reproducible technique of arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomy using standard portals and minimal equipment when indicated.

Clinical Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery: A Prospective Survival Analysis of Primary and Revision Surgeries in a Large Mixed Cohort

BACKGROUND

With the rapid increase in hip preservation procedures, revision hip arthroscopic surgery and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip resurfacing (HR) after primary hip arthroscopic surgery have become a large focus in the recent literature.

PURPOSE

The primary purpose was to perform a survival analysis in a large mixed cohort of patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery at a high-volume tertiary referral center for hip preservation with a minimum 2-year follow-up. The secondary purpose was to compare clinical outcomes of primary versus revision hip arthroscopic surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

From February 2008 to June 2012, data were prospectively collected on all patients undergoing primary or revision hip arthroscopic surgery. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively with the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), and Hip Outcome Score-Sport-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS). Pain was estimated on a visual analog scale (VAS). Patient satisfaction was measured with the question "How satisfied are you with your surgery results?" (1 = not at all, 10 = the best it could be).

RESULTS

There were a total of 1155 arthroscopic procedures performed, including 1040 primary arthroscopic procedures (926 patients) and 115 revision arthroscopic procedures (106 patients). Of these, 931 primary arthroscopic procedures (89.5%) in 824 patients (89.0%) and 107 revision arthroscopic procedures (93.0%) in 97 patients (91.5%) were available for follow-up and included in our study. The mean change in patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores at 2-year follow-up in the primary arthroscopic surgery group was 17.4 for the mHHS, 19.7 for the HOS-ADL, 23.8 for the HOS-SSS, 21.3 for the NAHS, and -3.0 for the VAS, and the mean change in the revision arthroscopic surgery group was 13.4, 10.9, 16.1, 15.4, and -2.7, respectively. All scores improved significantly compared with preoperatively (P < .001). PRO scores were higher at all time points for the primary group compared with the revision group (P < .05). Mean satisfaction was 7.7 and 7.2 for the primary and revision groups, respectively. Of 931 primary arthroscopic procedures, 52 (5.6%) converted to THA/HR. Of 107 revision arthroscopic procedures, 12 (11.2%) converted to THA/HR. The relative risk of THA/HR was 2.0 after revision procedures compared with primary procedures. The cumulative incidence of competing risks of conversion to THA/HR and revision hip arthroscopic surgery after primary hip arthroscopic surgery was 2.6% and 5.8%, respectively. The overall complication rate was 4.3%.

CONCLUSION

Patients showed significant improvement in all PRO, VAS, and satisfaction scores at 2 years after hip arthroscopic surgery. Patients who underwent primary arthroscopic surgery showed higher PRO scores and a trend toward greater improvement in the VAS score compared with patients who underwent revision arthroscopic surgery. The relative risk of THA/HR was 2.0 after revision procedures compared with primary procedures.

Understanding and Treating the Snapping Hip

Snapping hip, or coxa saltans is a palpable or auditory snapping with movement of the hip joint. Extra-articular snapping is divided into external and internal types, and is caused laterally by the iliotibial band and anteriorly by the iliopsoas tendon. Snapping of the iliopsoas usually requires contraction of the hip flexors and may be difficult to distinguish from intra-articular coxa saltans. Ultrasound can be a useful modality to dynamically detect tendon translation during hip movement to support the diagnosis of extra-articular snapping. Coxa saltans is typically treated with conservative measures including anti-inflammatories, stretching, and avoidance of inciting activities. Recalcitrant cases are treated with surgery to lengthen the iliopsoas or the iliotibial band.

The use of hip arthroscopy in the management of the pediatric hip

Arthroscopy of the pediatric hip began in 1977 with a publication by Gross. Interest was relatively slow to develop in the 1980s and 1990s. Coupled with the success of hip arthroscopy in the adult, interest heightened in applying the procedure to a variety of pediatric hip disorders, given that the alternative was an open surgical hip dislocation. The success of this initial group of pediatric hip arthroscopist's has further expanded the application of hip arthroscopy as the primary or adjunct procedure for the management of intra-articular problems of the pediatric hip.

Large strengthening effect of a hip-flexor training programme: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect on hip-flexion strength of a 6-week hip-flexor training programme using elastic bands as resistance. We hypothesized that the training group, compared to a control group, would increase their hip-flexion strength more.

METHODS

Thirty-three healthy subjects (45 % females), 24(5) years of age, were included in a randomized controlled trial and allocated to heavy strength training of the hip-flexor muscles or to control (no strength training). Strength training of the hip-flexors (dominant leg) was performed three times 10 min per week for 6 weeks. The strength training group progressed from 15 repetition maximum (RM) (week 1) to 8 RM (week 6). Isometric hip-flexion strength (primary outcome) was measured by a blinded assessor using a reliable test procedure.

RESULTS

In the strength training group, the isometric hip-flexion strength of the trained leg increased by 17 %, (p < 0.001). The between-group difference in hip-flexion strength change in the trained leg (dominant leg, training group) versus the non-trained leg (dominant leg, control group) was significantly different from baseline to follow-up, corresponding to a mean change of 0.34 (95 % CI 0.17-0.52) Nm/kg, in favour of the strength training group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Simple hip-flexor strength training using elastic bands as external loading, for only 6 weeks, substantially improves hip-flexor muscle strength. This simple exercise programme seems promising for future prevention and treatment of acute and longstanding hip-flexor injuries, such as acute rectus femoris injuries and longstanding iliopsoas-related pain and impingement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

A Comparison of Supine and Lateral Decubitus Positions for Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review of Outcomes and Complications

PURPOSE

This systematic review examines outcomes and risk profiles of the hip arthroscopy in the supine versus lateral decubitus positions to elucidate any superiority of one approach over the other.

METHODS

Three databases (Embase, PubMed, and Medline) were searched for studies that addressed hip arthroscopy performed in either position, and were subsequently screened by two reviewers with data abstracted in duplicate.

RESULTS

Similar outcomes were observed. Supine studies showed a greater mean postoperative improvement for modified Harris hip score (33.74), visual analog scale (-3.99), nonarthritic hip score (29.61), Harris hip score (35.73), and hip outcome score (31.4). Lateral decubitus studies showed greater improvement using the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis (14.76) score. Supine studies reported more neuropraxic injuries (2.06% v 0.47%), labral penetration (0.65% v 0%), and heterotopic ossification (0.21% v 0%). Lateral decubitus studies reported more fluid extravasation (0.21% v 0.05%) and missed loose bodies (0.08% v 0.01%). Similar rates of revision (1.8% lateral, 1.4% supine) and conversion to open procedures (2.6% in lateral, 2.0% in supine) were also identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of quality of evidence, direct comparisons are currently limited; however, the supine position is associated with more neuropraxic injuries, labral penetration, and heterotopic ossification, whereas lateral decubitus has increased risk of fluid extravasation and missed loose bodies. At this time, no evidence exists to establish superiority of one position.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level II, III, and IV studies.

Hip impingement: beyond femoroacetabular

In the last 20 years, femoroacetabular impingement has been at the forefront of clinical practice as a cause of hip pain in young adults. As arthroscopic techniques for the hip continue to evolve, the possible presence of a new group of conditions creating mechanical conflict in and around the hip joint (ischiofemoral, subspine and iliopsoas impingement) has recently been elucidated whilst interest in already known 'impingement' syndromes (pelvic-trochanteric and pectineofoveal impingement) is now revived. This article attempts to increase awareness of these relatively uncommon clinical entities by describing their pathomorphology, contact mechanics, treatment and published results available to present. It is hoped that such knowledge will diversify therapeutic options for the clinician, thereby improving outcomes in a small but not negligible portion of patients with previously unexplained persistent symptoms.