Radiographic, Histologic, and Arthroscopic Findings in Amorphous Calcifications of the Hip Labrum

Radiographic, Histologic, and Arthroscopic Findings in Amorphous Calcifications of the Hip Labrum

Authors

Jackson TJ, Stake CE, Stone JC, Lindner D, El Bitar YF, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2013.12.019

Purpose

To characterize the clinical, radiographic, histologic, and arthroscopic features of amorphous calcifications found in the acetabular labrum.

Methods

Retrospective review of 16 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy with identified labral calcifications, with analysis of symptoms, imaging, and intraoperative findings.

Key Findings

• Predominantly female patients, average age 37.
• All had anterior groin pain and labral tears associated with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).
• Calcifications measured approximately 3.2 mm and were distinct from os acetabuli.
• The deposits were located in the anterosuperior labrum.

Conclusion

Amorphous labral calcifications represent a distinct pathology strongly linked with FAI and labral tears.

What This Means for Patients

Patients presenting with groin pain and labral calcifications should be evaluated for FAI, and these calcifications may contribute to symptoms that can be addressed surgically.