The Impact of Preoperative Intra-articular Injections on Postoperative Outcomes in Hip Arthroscopy

Introduction: Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure commonly performed to treat various hip conditions. Preoperative intra-articular injections, such as local anesthetics and corticosteroids, are frequently used to alleviate pain and as a diagnostic tool before hip arthroscopy. However, studies have shown conflicting information; some demonstrate better patient outcomes, while others have found an increased risk of complications and negative effects on postoperative recovery. This retrospective study evaluated the association between preoperative injections and postoperative outcomes in hip arthroscopy patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 1400 patients who underwent hip arthroscopy between 2014 and 2021 at our institution was performed. The patients were allocated into two cohorts based on whether they received a cortisone injection with local anesthetic within 1 year before the surgery. Outcomes during the study follow-up period (average: 437 days, max: 3018 days) were compared. Further analysis looked at subgroups at 30-day increments. Results: The results showed that 35.5% of the patients had received a preoperative injection. Although patients who received injections were more likely to be female (68.3% injected vs. 60.8% not injected, P = 0.019) and have asthma (12.5% injected vs. 7.3% not injected, P = 0.008), there were no significant differences in 90-day complications, 90-day emergency department visits, 90-day readmissions, any complications (wound infection, re-injury, recurrent pain or weakness, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism), prolonged pain or recovery, reoperation, total hip arthroplasty, 6-month Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function, 6-month Hip Dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Joint Replacement, or follow-up time between the injection and noninjection groups. There were no other differences in demographics, comorbidities, or physical function between the groups. Conclusion: Our study suggests that preoperative corticosteroid injections with local anesthetics do not significantly affect postoperative outcomes in hip arthroscopy patients or increase the risk of adverse effects. Careful evaluation of these risks and benefits is crucial to minimize potential adverse effects and maximize patient outcomes.