Minimum 2-Year Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Hip Labral Reconstruction in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Maldonado DR, Glein RM, Saks BR, Jimenez AE, Sabetian PW, Lall AC, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001984
Background
While labral repair is the standard treatment for labral pathology, some cases—particularly in young, active patients—require labral reconstruction. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of arthroscopic labral reconstruction in adolescents and young adults with irreparable tears.
Methods
A retrospective review was performed on 23 hips from adolescent and young adult patients undergoing labral reconstruction between 2009 and 2018. Pre- and post-operative patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were assessed at a minimum 2-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Significant improvements in all PROMs (e.g., mHHS, NAHS, HOS-SSS).
- High satisfaction rates were noted in both primary and revision reconstruction cohorts.
- No major complications were reported.
Conclusions
Labral reconstruction in young patients is effective and results in excellent midterm outcomes, even in revision settings. It offers a reliable surgical option for restoring hip function when the native labrum cannot be salvaged.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- When faced with irreparable labral pathology in adolescents and young adults, labral reconstruction should be strongly considered over debridement or non-anatomic repair.
- The procedure is well-tolerated and provides durable functional outcomes, even in revision cases.
- This data supports expanding the use of labral reconstruction in appropriately selected young patients to preserve joint function and prolong hip longevity.
