Sports activities after total hip arthroplasty

Performing sports after total hip arthroplasty (THA) may be associated with a risk of

• Trauma (fracture and dislocation)

• Shorter implant survival

There is no proof that trauma occurs more often than in healthy individuals, but sequelae may be more severe.

Shorter implant survival due to repetitive high contact forces is a fact, due to increased wear. The 15 year survival in highly active patients seems to be around 80%.

Surgeons can address the needs of active patients by using bearings with low wear rates, and femoral heads up to 36 mm in diameter.

The data provided in this review may help to fully inform active patients of the risks. The patient has to balance the pros and cons of sports after THA and to decide the best way for themselves.