[Outcome of arthroscopic resection of labral tears]

Arthroscopic treatment of labral pathologies in the hip has evolved considerably in recent years. Even though it has become an accepted therapeutic method there are only a few prospective outcome studies in extended patient collectives.

Since 9/2002 all patients undergoing hip arthroscopy in our institution have been prospectively evaluated by clinical and radiographic aspects and the use of several questionnaires (modified Harris hip score [MHHS], Larson hip score [LHS], visual analogue pain scale VAS]). In the present investigation only patients with an arthroscopically proven torn labrum and the absent of cartilage defects >I degrees according to the Outerbridge classification) with a minimum follow-up of at least 2 years postoperatively were included. Furthermore, only individuals without radiological evidence of a femoro-acetabular impingement or hip dysplasia were assessed.

According to the inclusion criteria 34 patients were initially enrolled in the investigation. Out of them 31 individuals (18 female, 13 male) with a mean of 29.9 years (range 14-49) could be followed up clinically and radiologically. At an average of 33.6 months (range 25.2-47.8) postoperatively we found a significant increase in the visual analogue pain scale (VAS: 6.0 vs. 2.7). Furthermore there was a significant improvement of the modified Harris hip score as well of the Larson hip score (MHHS: 63.1 P. vs. 85.9 P., LHS: 57.8 P. vs. 79.6 P.).

Arthroscopy of the hip can provide a significant improvement of patient satisfaction and hip function in patients with labral tears without associated cartilage or bony pathologies (dysplasia, FAI).