Function of the Labrum and Management of Labral Pathology

Management of hip injuries in the athlete has evolved significantly in the past few years with the advancement of arthroscopic techniques. The application of minimally invasive surgical techniques has facilitated relatively rapid returns to sporting activity in recreational and elite athletes alike. Recent advancements in both hip arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging have elucidated several sources of intraarticular pathology that result in chronic and disabling hip symptoms. Many of these conditions were previously unrecognized, and thus, left untreated. One of the most common indications for hip arthroscopy is the evaluation and treatment of acetabular labral tears. The objective of this article is to discuss the pathoetiology of labral tears, to review the current clinical and radiographic methods to detect labral injuries in the hip, and to discuss current arthroscopic techniques for managing these injuries.