Return to Sport After Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: a Comprehensive Review of Qualitative Considerations

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Arthroscopic hip surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome has evolved over time and has resulted in significantly improved clinical outcomes. These outcomes can be measured by clinical and radiographic metrics. Return to sport is commonly used as an outcome measure, not only in terms of overall rate but also type of sport, level of competition, and timing of return, as its quantitative definition continues to develop. Qualitative research methods can highlight the patient-derived themes that affect an athlete’s individual return to sport pathway, and can augment the existing methods of outcome reporting. We will specifically review the qualitative research that has been performed on evaluating return to sport after arthroscopic hip surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. Recent Findings: Current evidence finds a high overall rate of return to sport at 87–93% after arthroscopic hip surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. The available qualitative research in this body of literature, which is limited, has found three main overarching themes behind athletes’ decision and ability, or inability, to return to sport: self-efficacy, social support, and resetting expectations. Summary: Athletes experience high rates of return to sport and athletic performance after arthroscopic hip surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. This review highlights the qualitative considerations for these athletes in their overall readiness to return to sport, and its utility for treating physicians as we interact with these athletes both pre- and post-operatively. Further research is required to elucidate any further overarching themes that may be prevalent in different levels of competition.