When injured, patients will typically suffer from mechanical symptoms of the hip such as clicking and catching as well as limited range of motion. Other times the symptoms are less obvious, and only manifest with a dull groin pain with certain activities. At the time of arthroscopy, some labrum tears will need to be repaired with suture, and others will need to be trimmed to prevent continued symptoms.
Labrum tear
Coexistent with labrum tears, many surgeons are increasingly recognizing a condition termed femoroacetabular Impingement, or FAI. This condition refers to a mismatch in the shape of the two bones, the femur and acetabulum, which compose the hip joint. Deformity can be present in the femur, the acetabulum, or more commonly both. When on the femur it is termed a cam type impingement and if on the acetabulum, a pincer type impingement.
At a minimum FAI is felt to be the primary causative factor for labrum tears, and there are some who feel this condition is a significant contributor to osteoarthritis of the hip due the articular cartilage damage often seen when this condition exists. Treatment of this condition at the time of hip arthroscopy requires contouring the bone to recreate the natural shape of both bones, to minimize future trauma to the labrum and articular cartilage. In addition to these conditions, hip arthroscopy can successfully treat conditions such as loose bodies, cartilage defects, snapping hip, synovitis, tendon and ligament tears, and in certain cases osteoarthritis. Prior to hip arthroscopy, most patient will require specialized x-rays and MRI where dye is injected into the hip. Most patients will be on crutches approximately two weeks after their arthroscopy, and perform a combination of physical therapy and a home program for their rehabilitation. Return to athletic competition can take anywhere from four to six months.