Arthroscopic Treatment of Labral Tears of the Hip in Adolescents: Patterns of Clinical Presentation, Intra-articular Derangements, Radiological Associations and Minimum 2-Year Outcomes

Arthroscopic Treatment of Labral Tears of the Hip in Adolescents: Patterns of Clinical Presentation, Intra-articular Derangements, Radiological Associations and Minimum 2-Year Outcomes

Arthroscopy. 2017 Jul;33(7):1341-1351
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.01.048

Purpose

To report clinical presentation, intra-articular pathology, radiological findings, and outcomes after hip arthroscopy for labral tears in patients 18 years or younger.

Methods

Retrospective case series of adolescents undergoing hip arthroscopy for labral tears with minimum 2-year follow-up. Outcomes measured by hip scores and pain scale.

Results

Significant improvement in all outcome measures for males and females. Females had distinct injury patterns and were more likely to need capsular plication and iliopsoas lengthening. Revision rate 5.56%.

Conclusions

Hip arthroscopy improves pain and function in adolescent labral tear patients, with sex-specific differences guiding treatment.

What Does This Mean for Patients

Adolescents can expect symptom relief and functional improvement after arthroscopic labral repair, with tailored treatment based on sex-related differences in injury.