Arthroscopic Treatment of Labral Tears of the Hip in Adolescents: Patterns, Radiological Associations, and 2-Year Outcomes
Journal: Arthroscopy (2017 Jul;33(7):1341–1351)
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.01.048
Purpose
To evaluate clinical presentation, associated intra-articular pathology, imaging findings, and outcomes of hip arthroscopy for labral tears in patients aged ≤18.
Methods
Retrospective review of adolescent hip arthroscopy patients with minimum 2-year follow-up. Outcome measures included mHHS, NAHS, HOS, and VAS pain.
Results
- Significant improvement in all clinical scores for both sexes.
- Sex-specific differences: females more likely to present with ligamentous laxity and undergo capsular plication and iliopsoas lengthening.
- Revision rate: 5.56%.
Conclusions
Hip arthroscopy is effective in treating labral pathology in adolescents, with notable sex-based variations in pathology and surgical approach.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Adolescents with labral pathology can experience meaningful, sustained improvements after arthroscopic intervention.
- Sex-specific injury patterns particularly in females should guide surgical planning (e.g., plication, tendon releases).
- Emphasize comprehensive pre-op imaging and surgical flexibility to address individual anatomical challenges.