Cannabis Use Does Not Affect Outcomes After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Pain Management
• Cannabinoid Research

Background:

• Increasing cannabis use in the United States coincides with its legalization.
• Cannabis consumption is becoming more prevalent among patients seeking orthopaedic procedures.
• Understanding the impact of cannabis on surgical outcomes is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients who self-report cannabis use.
• To compare THA results between cannabis users and a matched control group.
• To provide data for guiding orthopaedic surgeons on counseling patients regarding cannabis use.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 74 primary THA patients with self-reported cannabis use (minimum 1-year follow-up).
• Exclusion of patients with a history of alcohol or illicit drug abuse.
• Matched control group analysis based on demographics, comorbidities, and concomitant medication use.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in Harris Hip Score (HHS) or Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Reconstruction (HOOS JR) between cannabis users and the control group.
• In-hospital and outpatient opioid consumption (MMEs), length of stay (LOS), readmissions, and reoperations showed no statistically significant variations between the groups.
• Perioperative outcomes, including functional recovery and complication rates, were comparable for both cohorts.

Conclusions:

• Self-reported cannabis use does not appear to negatively affect 1-year outcomes following total hip arthroplasty.
• Further research is needed to ascertain the long-term efficacy and safety of perioperative cannabis use in THA patients.
• Evidence-based guidance for orthopaedic surgeons on counseling patients about cannabis use is warranted.