A study concluded that Isolated labral debridement was found to result in high rates of failure and reoperation. One third of patients were converted to arthroplasty (hip replacement) and half of patients meeting criteria for reoperation or clinical failure. However, the remaining patients who did not need another operation, satisfactory outcome scores were observed.
This study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes of isolated labral debridement (removing damaged portions of the labrum) in the treatment of symptomatic hip labral lesions. The retrospective review included 48 hips in 47 patients, with a mean follow-up of 17 years. Results indicated that isolated labral debridement led to high rates of failure and reoperation, with one-third of patients undergoing conversion to total hip arthroplasty (hip replacement).
Higher acetabular chondral grades at the time of surgery were associated with subsequent surgery. While patients remaining reoperation-free showed satisfactory outcome scores, the overall clinical failure rate was 50%, emphasizing the limitations and challenges associated with isolated labral debridement in the long term.
Lamba A, Boos AM, Okoroha KR, et al. Isolated Arthroscopic Debridement of Acetabular Labral Tears: High Rates of Failure and Conversion to Total Hip Arthroplasty at 13-Year Minimum Follow-up. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2023;0(0). doi:10.1177/03635465231204345
What is Isolated labral debridement?
Isolated labral debridement is a surgical procedure performed to address issues with the labrum in the hip or shoulder joint. The labrum is a cartilaginous structure that surrounds the socket of the joint, providing stability and support to the joint. Both the hip and shoulder joints can be affected by labral tears or damage.
In the context of hip arthroscopy, isolated labral debridement involves the removal of damaged or torn portions of the labrum. This procedure is typically done arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon. The goal is to alleviate pain and improve joint function by addressing the specific issues with the labrum.
Similarly, in the shoulder joint, isolated labral debridement may be performed to address labral tears or other labral abnormalities. This procedure can involve the removal of damaged tissue to improve the overall stability and function of the shoulder joint.