Effects of physical activity on long-term survivorship after metal-on-metal hip resurfacing arthroplasty: is it safe to return to sports?

AIMS: In previous studies, we identified multiple factors influencing the survivorship of hip resurfacing arthroplasties (HRAs), such as initial anatomical conditions and surgical technique. In addition, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity score presents a ceiling effect, so a better quantification of activity is important to determine which activities may be advisable or detrimental to the recovered patient. We aimed to determine the effect of specific groups of sporting activities on the survivorship free of aseptic failure of a large series of HRA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 661 patients (806 hips) representing 77% of a consecutive series of patients treated with metal-on-metal hybrid HRA answered a survey to determine the types and amounts of sporting activities they regularly participated in. There were 462 male patients (70%) and 199 female patients (30%). Their mean age at the time of surgery was 51.9 years (14 to 78). Their mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.5 kg/m2 (16.7 to 46.5). Activities were regrouped into 17 categories based on general analogies between these activities. Scores for typical frequency and duration of the sessions were used to quantify the patients' overall time spent engaging in sporting activities. Impact and cycle scores were computed. Multivariable models were used.
RESULTS: We found no association between any category of activity and a decrease in survivorship. Impact and hip cycle scores also failed to show any association with revision for aseptic failure or wear.
CONCLUSION: Return to sporting activities after surgery is safe for patients treated with well-designed and well-implanted HRA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1186-1191.