Abstract
Background: This study investigates the rising trend of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients under 55 years old, commonly referred to as "younger" THA patients. Traditionally a procedure for older adults with osteoarthritis, THA is increasingly performed on younger patients. Methods: Using data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 to 2019, we analyze the factors driving this trend, including the causes of hip issues, patient characteristics, and coexisting medical conditions. The study examines in-hospital mortality, length of stay, post-surgical complications, and hospitalization costs for 231,630 THA patients aged 18-54.9, identified using ICD-10 codes. Results: Statistical analysis revealed that younger patients (aged 18-34.9) had higher rates of chronic anemia, inflammatory bowel disease, sickle cell disorders, connective tissue disorders, and coagulation defects compared to patients aged 35-44.9 and 45-54.9. They also experienced the longest hospital stays (2.08 days) and highest costs ($70,540). Significant odds ratios were found for sickle cell disorders (36.078), coagulation defects (1.566), inflammatory bowel disease (2.582), connective tissue disorders (11.727), hip dislocation (3.447), and blood transfusion (1.488) in younger patients compared to other THA patients. Conclusions: Comprehensive analysis of these unique needs is crucial for optimizing care, tailoring treatment, managing co-existing conditions, and personalizing recovery strategies to improve outcomes and quality of life for younger THA patients.