Physical activity level improves after periacetabular osteotomy for the treatment of symptomatic hip dysplasia

Hip pain secondary to acetabular dysplasia can prevent participation in recreational activities.

We retrospectively evaluated the physical activity level and pain after periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for the treatment of symptomatic hip dysplasia.

Forty-seven female and four male patients with a mean age of 27 years underwent a PAO. Physical activity (UCLA) and pain (WOMAC) were assessed preoperatively, at 1 year, and at minimum 2 years postoperatively. Multivariable linear regression identified substantial, independent factors associated with postoperative activity level.

The UCLA activity scores were on average higher at 1 year and remained higher at minimum 2 years when compared with preoperative scores. Mean postoperative WOMAC pain scores assessed at 1 year and at least 2 years were lower than mean preoperative scores. Age and preoperative physical activity level were strong independent predictors for activity level at 1 year and at minimum 2 years after surgery. Postoperative pain level was a moderate predictor for the level of activity at minimum 2-year followup.

Physical activity level improves after PAO. Younger age and higher activity levels before surgery and lower level of pain after surgery are predictive factors for postoperative level of activity in the short term. The data presented here may be useful to counsel the active young adult with symptomatic hip dysplasia about the improvement of level of activity to be expected after PAO.

Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.