The labrum is a fibrocartilage rim that surrounds the hip joint and gives it stability. The fibrocartilage deepens the socket, seals the joint and protects it by decreasing impact. A tear to the labrum can cause pain in the front of the hip, in the groin or side of the hip. The pain usually worsens with walking, pivoting or impact activities such as running. The pain also occurs at night and can be associated with clicking, catching or locking. Labral tears can occur in a traumatic event, a fall or a collision with another player. However, it is also damaged through overuse injuries. The most common being from rotational motions of the hip such as those used in soccer, hockey, golf and dance. If abnormal structural physiology exists, such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and dysplasia of the hip, this can increase the risk of a labral tear. Dr. Austin Chen, orthopedic hip specialist in the Boulder Colorado area specializes in treating labral tears of the hip.
What is a labral repair and reconstruction surgery?
Dr. Austin Chen uses an arthroscopic technique when repairing and reconstructing labral tears. In this surgery, he uses a tiny camera and small instruments to view the labral tears and surrounding damaged tissue. The torn portion of the labrum will be shaved and smoothed out. Dr. Austin Chen will then reattach the healthy tissue of the labrum using sutures. In cases where the labrum is too severely damaged that it cannot be repaired, a labral reconstruction will be necessary. Using a tissue graft from the patient, the labrum will be reconstructed.
What is the recovery from a labral repair and reconstruction surgery?
Following the labral repair and reconstruction surgery, the patient will be given a physical therapy regime by Dr. Chen. Physical therapy can be completed through the Boulder Centre for Orthopedics Physical Therapy Center, which offers all patients complete and seamless recovery care. A brace will be used to allow the labrum to heal. Depending on the individual case, most patients can return to normal physical activities within 4-6 months.
