Factors influencing function and recovery following hip repair surgery

PURPOSE: Despite advances in surgical techniques and rehabilitation, many patients or individuals fail to regain their prior functional ability following hip repair surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the most commonly cited predictors of successful recovery: age, balance, gender, fatigue, fall efficacy, pain, comorbidity, complications following surgery, cognitive ability, depression, and functional status prior to surgical intervention. SAMPLE: Seventy-three persons following hip repair surgery were evaluated in an inpatient rehabilitation program and 3 months following discharge. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of data used in a previous study. The data analyzed in this study were from a study evaluating the impact of post surgical video-based education. RESULTS: Balance and cognitive ability were the best predictors of functional ability 3 months following discharge from a rehabilitation setting. As to return to functional ability following discharge, balance, cognitive status, and prior functional ability were the best predictors. Men reported higher functional levels 3 months following discharge and were more likely to return to their presurgical functional level. DISCUSSION/RECOMMENDATIONs: The significant influence of balance and fatigue on functional ability highlights the need for interventions aimed at improving balance and reducing fatigue as persons recover following hip repair surgery.