Selective Debridement With Labral Preservation Using Narrow Indications in the Hip: Minimum 5-Year Outcomes With a Matched-Pair Labral Repair Control Group
Authors: Chen AW, Yuen LC, Ortiz-Declet V, Litrenta J, Maldonado DR, Domb BG
Journal: Am J Sports Med. 2018 Feb;46(2):297–304
Background
Labral repair is generally preferred, but selective labral debridement with preservation may be effective for carefully selected cases.
Methods
A cohort study comparing 101 patients undergoing selective debridement with labral preservation (SDLP) to matched controls who underwent labral repair, with minimum 5-year follow-up.
Key Findings
- Both groups demonstrated significant and comparable improvements in mHHS, NAHS, HOS-SSS, and pain reduction.
- No significant differences in return to function or patient satisfaction.
Conclusions
SDLP, when applied with strict indications, offers favorable long-term outcomes comparable to labral repair.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Providers should consider selective labral debridement with preservation as a valid option in stable labral tears, especially when labral tissue quality or patient factors favor this approach. Careful patient selection and surgical expertise are critical to optimizing outcomes.