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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

The Transition to an Anterior-Based Muscle Sparing Approach Improves Early Postoperative Function but is Associated with a Learning Curve
Published on: September 7, 2022
Avulsion of the proximal hamstring origin.
David G Wood1, Iain Packham, S Paul Trikha
1North Sydney Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Centre, 286 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia. dwood@nsosmc.com.au
Surgical repair of proximal hamstring origin avulsions yields satisfactory results. Early surgical intervention is recommended for complete avulsions to improve outcomes and reduce complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
Background:
- Proximal hamstring origin avulsions are common athletic injuries.
- Diagnosis involves clinical presentation and imaging.
- Surgical reattachment is a treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation of proximal hamstring origin avulsions.
- To analyze diagnostic imaging findings.
- To describe surgical reattachment techniques and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-two reconstructions in 71 patients at a single center.
- Mean follow-up of 24 months.
- Comparison of postoperative hamstring strength to the uninjured side.
Main Results:
- Waterskiing was the most frequent cause (21 cases).
- Complete avulsion occurred in 87.5% of cases, with mean retraction of 7 cm.
- Postoperative strength averaged 84% and endurance 89% of the contralateral side.
Conclusions:
- Distinguish avulsions from muscle injuries; recommend early surgical repair for avulsions.
- Delayed repair increases technical difficulty, sciatic nerve risk, and reduces outcomes.
- Surgical treatment for avulsions offers predictable and satisfactory results.
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