Hip arthroscopy has transformed the way we treat hip injuries and early joint degeneration. Patients often want to know: what results can they realistically expect a decade after surgery? At the American Hip Institute (AHI), long-term data show sustained improvements in pain, function, and quality of life. Here are key findings from recent studies and what they mean for you at the 10-year mark.
What the Research Shows 10 Years Later
Recent studies following patients for a full decade after hip arthroscopy show encouraging results:
- Lasting pain relief and better function – Most patients reported major improvements in walking, daily activities, and sports participation that were still present 10 years later.
- Low need for further surgery – Only a small percentage needed another hip arthroscopy or a hip replacement.
- High satisfaction rates – Many patients said they would choose the surgery again.
These findings confirm that hip arthroscopy isn’t just a short-term fix. It can protect your hip for years.
What Affects Long-Term Results?
Not everyone has the same outcome. Studies show a few factors make a difference:
- Age: Younger patients often do better over the long term.
- Joint health before surgery: Hips with less arthritis tend to hold up better.
- Extent of damage: Smaller labral tears and less cartilage wear lead to more predictable results.
These factors help decide if hip arthroscopy is the best choice for you.
How AHI Helps Patients Succeed
At AHI, our surgeons use techniques proven to give hips the best chance of long-term success, including:
- Repairing, rather than removing, the labrum whenever possible
- Reshaping the hip bones to restore smooth movement
- Closing the capsule to protect joint stability
- Careful evaluation to make sure surgery is right for each patient
What Patients Can Expect After 10 Years
If you’re a good candidate for hip arthroscopy, here’s what research suggests you may look forward to:
- Ongoing pain relief and better movement compared to before surgery
- The ability to stay active in sports, exercise, and daily routines
- A lower chance of needing hip replacement compared to patients with untreated joint damage
Hip arthroscopy has proven itself not only in the short run but also in the long run. Ten years after surgery, many American Hip Institute patients are still enjoying strong hips. We’re committed to giving you the same opportunity for lasting relief.
If you’re dealing with hip pain and wondering if hip arthroscopy is right for you, book an appointment to discuss your options and see if you’re a candidate for this procedure.
AUTHOR: Benjamin G. Domb, M.D., Founder and Medical Director at American Hip Institute, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Hip Arthroscopy. Dr. Domb is rated among the Top Doctors in the USA by the NY Times, US News & World Report, and Castle Connolly.
AUTHOR: Etan P. Sugarman, M.D., FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip arthroscopy, sports medicine, and joint preservation. He has extensive expertise in the treatment of complex hip, shoulder, and knee conditions, with a focus on minimally invasive, reconstructive, and advanced restorative procedures. Dr. Sugarman is the inventor of innovative surgical techniques in both the hip and shoulder, and he regularly trains surgeons from around the world in advanced joint preservation methods.
Reference:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33220468/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38662811/
