EP8.65 Patient and physiotherapist experiences of prehabilitation prior to hip arthroscopy for FAI syndrome: Qualitative findings from the PREHAB FAI feasibility study

Abstract Background Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS) is one of the most common causes of hip and groin pain in young adults. The concept of prehabilitation to enhance postoperative results has been proposed to optimise patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. However, there are no studies that have examined the acceptability, feasibility, suitability, safety, and experience of a prehabilitation intervention for patients undergoing treatment for FAIS. Objective To explore patient and clinician experiences of a novel prehabilitation intervention delivered prior to hip arthroscopy for patients with FAIS Methods A qualitative design embedded within a mixed methods feasibility trial was used. Four patient focus groups were conducted with 15 patients. Five individual semi-structured interviews were carried out with physiotherapists. Data analysis of the results was carried out by using a mixed deductive-inductive thematic analysis to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention against predetermined criteria. Results Six overall themes were identified. Participants reported that data collection procedures and digital platform for exercises were user friendly. The intervention was considered feasible but challenged by physiotherapy workload, limited clinical space, and the timing of outcome measures. The intervention was acceptable to both groups, who highlighted the psychological benefits of pre operative education, increased confidence, and smoother transition to post operative rehabilitation. A hybrid model combining in person and virtual sessions improved accessibility. Physiotherapists emphasised the importance of personalised exercise prescription. Minor symptom flare ups occurred but were effectively managed, and no serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion The results of this study have shown that the PREHAB-FAI intervention is acceptable, safe, and suitable for patients undergoing treatment for FAIS. Refinements to service capacity, outcome measure timing, and delivery logistics are recommended to progress to a definitive trial to test effectiveness.