Endoscopic Repair of Partial-Thickness Undersurface Tears of the Abductor Tendon: Clinical Outcomes With Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors
Hartigan DE, Perets I, Ho SW, Walsh JP, Yuen LC, Domb BG
Journal: Arthroscopy. 2018 Apr;34(4):1193–1199
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.10.022
PMID: 29305287
Background
Partial-thickness undersurface tears of the gluteus medius are a recognized cause of lateral hip pain and functional limitation.
Methods: This case series evaluated 25 patients treated with endoscopic transtendinous repair of abductor undersurface tears with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. Outcome measures included multiple PROs, VAS pain scores, strength, and gait analysis.
Key Findings
Significant improvements were observed in all outcome measures, with many patients regaining strength and normal gait. No revisions or complications were reported.
Conclusions
Endoscopic repair of partial-thickness gluteus medius tears is safe and effective, producing durable improvements in pain, strength, and function.
What Does This Mean for Patients
For patients with persistent lateral hip pain due to undersurface abductor tears, endoscopic repair offers meaningful symptom relief and functional improvement over at least two years.