Labral Tears

The labrum of the hip is a cuff of thick tissue that surrounds the hip socket. It works in a very similar way to a rubber washer or gasket. The labrum helps to keep fluid inside the joint and also functions to stabilize the hip joint. When a labral tear of the hip occurs, a piece of this tissue can become pinched in the joint causing pain and catching sensations.

Hip Arthroscopy can help treat this condition by either repairing the labrum using small anchors and stitches or by debriding the torn piece. Repairing of the labrum is preferred by Dr. Wagner since it helps restore the hip’s normal anatomy and labral function.

Labral Tear Video

Large labrum tear in the hip as seen on hip arthroscopy.

Labral Repair Video

Hip labrum repaired with hip arthroscopy.