Sport advice given by Dutch orthopaedic surgeons to patients after a total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

Background The advice given to patients in the Netherlands regarding sport activities after total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA) is currently based on the opinion of the individual orthopaedic surgeon. Aim To give an overview of the sport advice given by Dutch orthopaedic surgeons and to examine whether surgeons are familiar with the Dutch health-enhancing physical activity (PA) recommendations (NNGB). Methods 472 surgeons were selected to fill in a questionnaire regarding 40 sport activities for four patient age groups (in years): 1) THA<65, 2) THA>65, 3) TKA<65 4) TKA>65. Surgeons were also asked if they discuss the role of PA postoperatively and about their knowledge and application of the NNGB. Results There was consensus on 29 sport activities for the THA<65 group and 30 activities for the THA>65 group. In the TKA<65 group there was consensus for 33 sports activities and in the TKA>65 group for 32 activities. Amongst orthopaedic surgeons performing THAs and TKAs, respectively 77% and 79% discussed the role of PA postoperatively with their patients, and a total of 34% and 41% were familiar with the NNGB, with 33% and 34% of them giving NNGB-based advice. Conclusion Results can be used to recommend sport activities after THA/TKA. Although the majority of orthopaedic surgeons discuss the role of PA postoperatively with their patients, familiarity with health-enhancing PA recommendations is lacking.