Predictive Factors for Return to Driving After Lower Limb Arthroplasty

TL;DR

This study identifies factors that predict when patients can safely return to driving after hip or knee replacement surgery.

Contribution

The study introduces objective clinical predictors for driving return after lower limb arthroplasty.

Findings

Females and patients using walking aids are less likely to return to driving after surgery.

Faster TUG test results and longer self-reported walking times predict successful driving return.

About 60% of patients return to driving within six weeks post-surgery.

Abstract

A common question post total hip arthroplasty (THA)/total knee arthroplasty (TKA) arthroplasty is “Doctor, when can I drive?”. No objective assessment currently exists. This study aimed to identify clinical factors predicting driving return post hip THA and TKA.

In this single-center retrospective observational study, patients were reviewed at 6 weeks post THA and TKA. Patient demographics, driving status, timed up and go (TUG) test, self-reported walking time (SRWT), walking aid use, and pain scores were collected. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and binary regression models were used.

Five hundred ninety two participants were included: 271 THA (males n = 134, mean age: 66.4) and 321 TKA (males n = 155, mean age: 66.8). THA: At 6 weeks, 155 patients (57.1%) were driving and 116 did not drive (DND) (n = 82 female, 70.6%) (P < .001). SRWT was longer in driving group (mean 36.35 minutes vs 31.23 minutes [P = .072]). TUG tests were faster in driving group (9.51 seconds vs 11.98 seconds [P < .001]). Driving inability predictors included using 2 crutches (P < .001) and TUG (P = .015). TKA: At 6 weeks, 196 patients (61%) were driving and 125 DND (n = 78 female, 62.4%) (P < .01). SRWT was longer in driving group (mean 33.6 vs 28.1 minutes [P = .31]). TUG tests were faster in driving group (10.18 seconds vs 12.29 seconds [P < .001]). Driving inability predictors included “severe” pain scores (P ≤ .0001) and >2 walking aids use (P = .022).

Following THA/TKA, 60% patients were driving by 6 weeks. Females take longer for driving return. Walking aids negatively impacted driving return, while faster TUG test and longer SRWT were positive predictors.

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