Short-term Results of Hip Abductor Tears by Means of Endoscopic Repair

Abstract

It is well known and documented that the majority of abductor-rotator cuff tears occur at the anterior portion of gluteus medius and are more prevalent in female sex , larger femoral offset and age over 40. The objective of this paper is to describe the arthroscopic repair of the gluteus medius tendon tears and results in the short term in our institution. Retrospective study. 13 cases of abductor tears treated by means of endoscopic technique. Inclusion criteria were three months failed conservative treatment (local injections, shock waves, and physical therapy as well), non-advanced osteoarthritic hips with persistent lateral hip pain and documented tear obtained from clinical records (ultrasound and MRI examinations), follow up WOMAC score, and HHS as well. The average follow-up was 11 months (range, 6 - 18). Mean age was 54 (range, 39-79). 10 cases were partial tears (Grade II according to Thomas classification) and 3 cases with complete avulsions. All patients improve the lateral pain with a mean improvement of 28 points in WOMAC. One superficial thigh haematoma and ecchymosis was observed. No other adverse complications were found. 11 patients were satisfied with the results. The arthroscopic technique for repair of hip abductor-rotator cuff tears provides pain relief and improvement of functional scores in early follow up. Further long-term follow-up and larger number of cohort of patients is necessary to confirm the clinical effectiveness of this procedure. Level of evidence IV: case series study.