Multicentre randomised controlled trial protocol in China comparing postless hip arthroscopy with conventional perineal post-assisted hip arthroscopy to reduce perineal complications in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement: the POSTLESS-HIP trial.

In 30 seconds

The POSTLESS-HIP trial is a multicentre, prospective, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial in China evaluating postless hip arthroscopy versus conventional perineal post-assisted hip arthroscopy in 270 patients aged 15-60 with femoroacetabular impingement. The primary outcome is the incidence of perineal nerve injury on postoperative day 1, with an expected incidence of 10% in the conventional group compared to 0.5% in the postless group.

Key findings

• Primary outcome measures perineal nerve injury incidence on postoperative day 1.
• Sample size calculated for 90% power with an α of 0.05.
• Participants will be randomised 1:1 to either intervention group.
• Secondary outcomes include various patient-reported joint function assessments at 3 months.

Why it matters

This trial addresses a significant concern regarding perineal complications associated with conventional hip arthroscopy, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced adverse effects in surgical practice.