Hauer G, Sadoghi P, Smolle M, Zaussinger S, Friesenbichler J, Leithner A, Maurer-Ertl W. Sexual activity after short-stem total hip arthroplasty. Does stem size matter?
Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2023;
143:3613-3619. [PMID:
36114870 PMCID:
PMC10192171 DOI:
10.1007/s00402-022-04614-y]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Sexual activity is an important component of quality of life. To date, no studies have examined the impact of stem design on return to sexual activity (RTS) and quality of sex life after total hip arthroplasty (THA).
METHODS
A questionnaire was designed to assess preoperative and postoperative sexual habits, joint awareness and physical activity in working-age patients undergoing short-stem (n = 176) or straight-stem (n = 97) THA.
RESULTS
No differences were noted in time until RTS based on the stem design (short stems vs. straight stems; 6 [IQR: 4-10] vs. 6 [4-10] weeks; p = 0.996). Multivariate analysis revealed that higher patient BMI (p = 0.04), female gender (p < 0.001) and lower FJS-12 (p = 0.006) were significantly associated with delayed RTS. Improved hip mobility and reduced pain mainly contribute to improved quality of sexual activity postoperatively.
CONCLUSION
This study, hence, indicates that stem design has no impact on time until resumption of sexual activity in patients < 65 years. Female obese individuals who are aware of their artificial joint in daily life are at increased risk of delayed RTS after surgery.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III, retrospective cohort study.
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