Work

Treatment options for persistent lateral femoral cutaneous nerve lesions after total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach: retrospective analysis with clinical assessment

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose The direct anterior approach (DAA) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has a risk of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury. Long-term outcomes and therapeutic options for such injuries are poorly investigated. This study evaluates the impact of iatrogenic LFCN lesions on long-term outcomes and investigates treatments like ultrasound-guided nerve infiltration or neurolysis. Methods Our institutional database of primary THAs (2014–2022) was searched for patients with iatrogenic LFCN lesions after DAA, confirmed via ultrasound or electroneurography. First, retrospective analysis of the effects of ultrasound-guided nerve infiltration and neurolysis. Second, clinical-radiological assessment of pain, function, incision, and affected skin area. Patient-reported outcomes (OHS, COMI Hip, UCLA) were compared to a matched non-LFCN injury control group. Results Of 8136 patients, 29 (0.36%) met inclusion criteria, with 22 undergoing ultrasound diagnostics. Eighteen received nerve infiltration (improvement after one (n = 7), two (n = 3) or three (n = 1) infiltrations), and two had neurolysis. After a mean follow-up of 4.95 years, 13 patients were assessed. Common symptoms included hypesthaesia (11), dysesthesia (6), and tingling (3), with a mean affected area of 253cm 2 ± 64.8. 24-months questionnaires for the LFCN group (OHS 39.2 ± 8.6, COMI Hip 2.4 ± 2.7, UCLA 6.5 ± 1.6) were worse than the control group (OHS 46.2 ± 2.3, COMI Hip 0.6 ± 0.8, UCLA 7.2 ± 1.5), though differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion Instrumentally proven LFCN lesions after DAA THA are rare but lead to worse long-term outcomes. Ultrasound-guided nerve infiltration shows favorable results for symptom management.

Source: International Orthopaedics

DOI: 10.1007/s00264-025-06512-5

Authors: Jakob Hax, Louis Leuthard, Selina Nauer, Vincent A. Stadelmann, Michael Leunig, Hannes A. Rüdiger

Institutions: University of Zurich, Schulthess-Klinik

Language: English

Topic: Orthopaedic implants and arthroplasty

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,190