Introduction: In the Swedish health care system waiting time for THR surgery has been unacceptable long. There are several hip disease related circumstances that generates costs for the society and the patient. In order to perform complete health economic analysis these costs have to be assessed.

Patients and Material: Prior to THR surgery, 3500 patients from 20 hospitals were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding cost generating events related to the hip disease. Individual data on waiting time were collected. Follow-up questionnaire was administered one year postoperatively.

Preliminary results: 2712 patients answered the pre-operative questionnaire. The sample was representative; mean age 69 years, 67% > 65 years (retirement age). Mean waiting time for orthopaedic consultation was 176 days and for surgery 312 days. 82% used any medication due to the hip disease. Among the non-retired patients 33% were on sick leave and 25% were on disability pension. 4% reported home-help service, 9% transportation service for disabled, and 46% had any home modification. 26% required help from relatives in various extents. The costs related to hip disease amounts to 8 000 Euro one year prior to surgery. Productivity loss constitutes 72% of total costs, health care costs 13%, municipal costs 6%, medication 1,5% and costs for relative care-taking 7,5%.

Discussion: Productivity loss constitutes the principal cost for hip disease in patients eligible for THR surgery. One year on the waiting list costs equals the surgery cost. The waiting time for orthopaedic consultation and subsequent surgery is unacceptable long. Baseline cost data is important for further adequate health economic analyses.