Gender differences in pre-surgical hip arthroplasty patients

Abstract

Introduction: There is growing evidence that gender may influence surgical outcomes, rehabilitation, and overall patient experience in various orthopedic procedures. The main objective of the present study was to explore gender-based differences in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty surgery to understand better how they might impact the preoperative experience and contribute to personalized patient care. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with n = 180 pre-surgical participants (n = 84 females, n = 96 males). All patients were consecutively admitted for primary hip arthroplasty surgery at the orthopedics surgery and traumatology unit of the Hospital Cl & iacute;nic of Barcelona (Spain), between October 1, 2023 and July 31, 2024. The assessment consisted of a socio-demographic form and two questionnaires: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the 5-level EQ-5D version (EQ-5D-5l).Results: Both groups consisted of a similar percentage of males and females. Females presented statistically significantly higher levels of preoperative anxiety than males (p = .050), but no significant differences appeared in the depression subscale (p = .382). Regarding quality of life, females reported significantly higher scores on difficulties in mobility (p = .037), usual activities (p = .027), and perceived pain (p = .004) compared to males. Finally, greater anxiety and depression scores were associated with poor self-perceived health in males but not in females. Conclusions: This study is essential to bridge gaps in knowledge regarding gender differences in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty. Clinically, these results underline the importance of considering gender-specific factors when planning interventions and support for hip arthroplasty patients to improve outcomes and overall well-being.