Editorial Commentary: Return-to-Play and Return-to-Sport Metrics Require Standardization

It is commonly accepted that a primary goal of orthopaedic surgeries is to restore function for our patients, and to achieve this goal, many research studies aim to define outcomes that set a benchmark for knowing whether this mark is achieved. Unfortunately, return-to-play (RTP) and return-to-sport (RTS) metrics are often used without any strict definition or standardization. They often rely on patient recall, which could be biased, and often fail to distinguish level of performance after return to activity. Moreover, different patients have different activity levels and goals; RTP or RTS in a professional is obviously different than in someone who walks in a pool for exercise. The reasons that a patient does not RTS also bear consideration. Reasons could include physical sensations, psychological experiences, lifestyle and social factors, injury at another site, and other causes. It is important that we-as both surgeons and researchers-become aware of the inconsistencies created with RTP/RTS metrics and ensure we are monitoring the right outcomes, so our patients achieve the best results possible. In the end, we must establish a trusting relationship with our patients to help manage their expectations and get them back into the game safely.