Hip Labral Tears
Hip labral tears are a common sports injury, particularly in young active individuals. Hip labral tears often involve other hip injuries. The labrum is made of cartilage and has very limited ability to heal without surgery. A labra tear can cause significant pain and joint instability which can lead to degenerative arthritis. This is why most labral tears are surgically treated.
When Dr. Cooper has diagnosed your hip tear and its severity, he will recommend the best treatment options for you. Initially he may recommend a trial of nonsurgical management including activity limitations, RICE, over the counter anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy.
Non-surgical management can be effective, however for many patient with labral tears and the boney changes of FAI, surgical management is required. This surgery is safe and effective at treating hip pain and returning patients to an active lifestyle.
Hip arthroscopy for surgical repair of a labral tear
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine and treat symptomatic hip conditions including hip pain; and to repair any injuries and impingements that caused a labral tear. The goal of hip arthroscopy is to eliminate pain and restore hip stability and mobility. Usually, hip arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure for patients in good health.
What are the advantages of minimally invasive hip arthroscopy?
There are many advantages to treating a hip condition arthroscopically over open hip surgery including:
- Quicker recovery
- Minimized damage to surrounding tissues
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Reduced scarring
- Hip preservation to prevent arthritis
- Preventative treatment of hip replacements
Hip arthroscopy is a challenging procedure that requires surgical expertise. Dr. Joe Cooper has the skills and experience to safely and effectively repair your hip condition and relieve your pain. Dr. Cooper is fellowship-trained in sports medicine and has trained specifically in this procedure.
Before surgery
Preoperative physical therapy may be recommended to improve core strength and help improve your recover from surgery.
The procedure
The procedure frequently performed under spinal anesthesia with regional blocks to minimize narcotic use and the risks of anesthesia. Dr. Cooper will make a small incision to insert the arthroscope, a tiny camera hooked up to a video monitor, which allows the doctor to clearly view inside the hip joint and assess the damage. This confirms a tear and any other concurrent injuries requiring repair. Separate incisions are needed to insert the specialized, tiny needed for repairs. Incisions may be closed with a few stitches or tape.
After surgery
You will receive pain medication for a short period and use crutches for several weeks. Dr. Cooper will design a postoperative rehabilitation plan based on your procedure and needs. It may take several months for the pain to resolve. Often a patient can return to moderate activity within a few months. Return to play within 4-5 months depending on the sport and the extent of repairs.
When your hip hurts contact Dr. Joe Cooper to schedule a consultation to learn about your condition and all your treatment options.
