Delays in diagnosis are associated with poorer outcomes in adult hip dysplasia.

Background and Aims Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a common cause of osteoarthritis. Periacetabular osteotomy can restore femoral head coverage; however, it is reserved for patients with minimal articular degeneration. We examined the relationship between delays in diagnosis and outcomes. Methods We identified patients presenting to a hip specialist with a new diagnosis of hip dysplasia. The time taken between patients presenting to their general practitioner and attending the young adult hip clinic was established. Patients were stratified into Early, Moderate and Late Referral groups. Hip and SF-12 questionnaires were completed. Radiographs were graded according to the Tönnis classification system and the outcome following hip specialist review documented. Results Fifty-one patients were identified. Mean time from attending a general practitioner to review at the young adult hip clinic was 40.4 months. Lower hip and SF-12 scores, and higher radiological osteoarthritis grades were found in the Moderate and Late Referral groups. A higher proportion of the Moderate and Late Referral group underwent total hip arthroplasty rather than periacetabular osteotomy. Conclusion Delays in referring a patient to a hip specialist are associated with poorer outcomes. We propose pelvic radiographs are requested early by general practitioners to allow prompt diagnosis and referral to a hip specialist.

Driving reaction time following periacetabular osteotomy.

INTRODUCTION: Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is increasingly being used to treat young adults with symptomatic hip dysplasia. Currently there is a lack of evidence to guide return to driving after this procedure. This study aimed to identify the length of time required after a Periacetabular Osteotomy procedure before a patient can safely return to driving. METHODS: All patients undergoing PAO were assessed for suitability for the study. Inclusion criteria were: currently driving with a valid licence; and being able to attend follow-up assessment. Baseline driving reaction time was assessed using a driving simulator preoperatively. The simulation was repeated 5 times for each patient and reaction times recorded (Thinking time, Action time and Total reaction time for braking at 30 mph). The driving simulation was repeated using the same methods at 6 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative times were compared. RESULTS: 26 patients were included (24 females, 2 males) with a mean age of 32 (range 19-50) years. The mean preoperative times were: Thinking time 0.48, Action time 0.21, Total time 0.69 seconds. At 6 weeks postoperatively, mean Action time increased to 0.26 seconds (p = 0.012) and mean Total time increased to 0.78 seconds (p = 0.013). By 12 weeks post procedure, there was no significant difference in reaction times compared to baseline (mean Thinking time 0.47 seconds, Action time 0.23, Total time 0.72; p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Most patients may not be safe to drive at 6 weeks following PAO procedures but should be safe to drive at 12 weeks postoperatively. Individual patient factors should also be taken into consideration.