The Impact of Total Joint Arthroplasty on Sexual Function in Young, Active Patients

There is limited information regarding sexual function following total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA). A multicenter study of 806 THA, 542 TKA, and 181 control patients less than 60 years of age was conducted using an independent survey center to question subjects about their sexual function. Only 1.3% of THA and 1.6% of TKA patients stated they were not sexually active due to their operation. No significant differences were noted in sexual function based on the bearing surface, femoral head size, or use of surface replacement arthroplasty in the hip cohort. Multivariate analysis revealed no difference in the percentage of patients sexually active following a THA or TKA (OR 1.19, P = 0.38). Most young active patients return to sexual activity after hip and knee arthroplasty.