Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Irreparable Acetabular Labrum: A Match-Controlled Study
Authors: Chandrasekaran S, Darwish N, Mu BH, Rybalko DA, Perets I, Suarez-Ahedo C, Chaharbakhshi EO, Lall AC, Domb BG
Journal: Arthroscopy. 2019 Feb;35(2):480-488.
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2018.09.024 | PMID: 30612775
Background
Arthroscopic labral reconstruction is an option for irreparable acetabular labral tears, but outcomes compared to labral repair are not well established.
Methods
Matched cohort study comparing outcomes of arthroscopic labral reconstruction vs. labral repair over a minimum 2-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Both groups showed significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and pain relief.
- No significant difference in complication rates, secondary arthroscopies, or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA).
Conclusions
Labral reconstruction provides clinical outcomes comparable to labral repair and should be considered when repair is not feasible.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Consider arthroscopic labral reconstruction as a reliable alternative for irreparable labral tears.
- Both reconstruction and repair offer similar mid-term functional outcomes and complication profiles.
- Patient selection and intraoperative decision-making remain critical for optimizing results.