Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) between athletes and non-athletes.

Methods The authors prospectively collected data on 122 patients, the largest comparative series reported, who underwent hip arthroscopy for FAI. Of these, 80 actively participated in sporting activities (athletes), while 42 did not (non-athletes). Patients were asked to complete questionnaires for the modified Harris hip score (MHHS), non-arthritic hip score (NAHS), patient satisfaction on a visual analogue scale (VAS). This was collected immediately before surgery, and at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year after the procedure. The responses to the MHHS questionnaire were used to calculate the quality-of-life (QoL) score using the Rosser index matrix.

Results A significant improvement in the MHHS, NAHS and QoL was observed at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year after surgery (p<0.001). The 6-week MHHS (p=0.01) and NAHS (p=0.04) for the athletes were significantly better as compared with non-athletes. However, the 6-month and 1-year MHHS, NAHS and QoL scores were statistically similar for both groups.

Conclusions In this large, prospective series of patients we have demonstrated the positive impact of arthroscopic surgery for FAI in both the athletic and non-athletic population. Arthroscopic management of FAI is thus not the sole domain of the athletic patient. Non-athletes can do just as well.