Editorial Commentary: For Post-Hip Arthroplasty Iliopsoas Tendonitis, Psoas Tenotomy Is the Preferred First-Line Treatment, Even in Cases of Cup Overhang

Iliopsoas impingement pathology is one of the causes of persistent pain after total hip arthroplasty. It is reported as occurring in approximately 4% of cases; this may be significantly greater (in cases of postarthroplasty pain of unknown etiology). Inflammation is a result of impingement of the tendon against the acetabular component. This may occur with anteroinferior prominence when the cup is properly positioned in anteversion or when the cup is oversized. Other causes of impingement include a cup-reinforcement ring or acetabular cage, a collared femoral component, screws penetrating through the ilium, cement extrusion, anterior wall hypoplasia, or increased femoral offset. When conservative treatment does not achieve the best outcome, the 2 main therapeutic options are psoas tenotomy or revision of the cup component. Tenotomy can be performed either arthroscopically or by an open approach and may be considered the best option for many patients, even in cases with anterior component prominence, as it is less invasive, presents fewer complications, and has faster recovery. The debate is open. The level of tenotomy remains controversial, with risks and benefits of both a lesser trochanter and transcapsular approach.