Predictive Factors for Return to Driving After Lower Limb Arthroplasty

Background 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. Methods 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. Results 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). Conclusions 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.