Hip labral repair and reconstruction in athletes

The diagnosis of hip pain in the competitive athlete can be challenging to assess. The potential sources of hip pain include acetabular labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement, trochanteric bursitis, snapping hip syndrome, gluteus muscle or tendon tears, and iliopsoas fibrosis. A thorough history and physical exam can help elucidate the source(s) of intra- and extra-articular hip pain. Imaging techniques such as x-rays, MRI, and CT are important modalities to consider in the diagnostic workup. Once the diagnosis has been made, conservative measures including mediation and activity modification are utilized to reduce pain and decrease inflammation. For athletes with refractory hip pain, surgical intervention with hip arthroscopy addresses multiple sources of pain in and around the hip with minimally invasive techniques. Most athletes are able to return to play 16-20 weeks following surgery. A thorough discussion regarding the diagnosis, surgical intervention, and postoperative expectations should be had prior to undergoing surgery.