Labrumreparation

Labrumreparation, or labrum repair, is a surgical procedure to restore joint stability by reattaching a torn labrum to the bone. The labrum is a fibrocartilaginous rim around the glenoid in the shoulder or acetabulum in the hip. Tears can cause pain, mechanical symptoms and instability. Repair aims to preserve native tissue and restore the labral seal, in contrast to debridement or reconstruction.

Indications include persistent symptoms from a discrete labral tear after nonoperative treatment, with viable tissue and a tear location amenable to reattachment. Common settings are shoulder SLAP lesions and hip acetabular labral tears associated with impingement or instability. Diagnosis relies on history, exam, imaging, and often diagnostic arthroscopy.

Technique is typically arthroscopic. Suture anchors are placed at the labral attachment, and sutures reattach the labrum to bone. Repairs may be combined with treatment of concomitant pathology such as impingement, cartilage injuries, or additional stabilizing procedures, depending on the joint and tear pattern.

Recovery varies but usually involves protected immobilization, gradual restoration of range of motion, physical therapy, and progressive strengthening over several months. Outcomes are favorable in properly selected patients, with improvements in pain and function; return to sport depends on difficulty of repair and rehabilitation compliance.

Complications are uncommon but can include stiffness, recurrent instability, persistent pain, or nerve irritation. If tissue quality is poor or healing potential is limited, alternatives such as debridement or reconstruction may be considered. Long-term prognosis is affected by age, comorbidity, and associated joint disease.