CORR Insights®: Acetabular Labral Tears Are Common in Asymptomatic Contralateral Hips With Femoroacetabular Impingement
Author: Domb BG
Journal: Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2019 May;477(5):980-982.
DOI: 10.1097/CORR.0000000000000606 | PMID: 30624320
Background
Asymptomatic contralateral hips in patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) often demonstrate labral tears, raising questions about clinical significance.
Methods
Review of imaging studies assessing labral and chondral pathology in asymptomatic hips.
Key Findings
- Labral tears were identified in ~40% of asymptomatic hips.
- Chondral damage was present in 15%.
- Approximately 21% of these labral tears become symptomatic within 2 years.
Conclusions
Imaging findings of labral tears and cartilage damage in asymptomatic hips are common, with a subset progressing to symptoms over time.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Avoid over-treatment based solely on imaging in asymptomatic contralateral hips.
- Educate patients on the risk of progression and implement close clinical and imaging surveillance.
- Use clinical correlation rather than imaging alone to guide intervention decisions.
- Plan follow-up intervals tailored to symptom development and risk factors.