Labral Reconstruction Specialist

What is labral reconstruction?

A labral reconstruction is a surgical procedure to reconstruct the labrum of the hip after a previous labral repair failed, when labrum has been previously removed, or when severe damage to the labrum prevents a normal repair. In rare cases, labral tears and labral damage can’t be repaired with traditional methods, so Dr. Harris may recommend a labral reconstruction.

As an orthopedic specialist in hip preservation surgery, Dr. Harris has the advanced training and experience necessary to perform this specialized surgery.

When is labral reconstruction recommended?

Labral reconstruction is recommended when there isn’t enough healthy labrum in the hip to restore its normal function. There are three reasons why a labral reconstruction would be recommended.

First, sufficient labral tissue is needed to ensure that the hip socket has an adequate suction seal. Thus, if any part or all of the labrum was removed in a prior operation, then performing a labral reconstruction may be indicated. Second, if a labral repair was performed, but the repair failed due to either technical errors or residual hip impingement, the labrum may be unable to be repaired a second time, indicating a labral reconstruction. Third, if a labrum is so severely torn or absent without sufficient tissue available for repair (rare), then performing a labral reconstruction may be indicated.

By using allograft tissue to reconstruct the labrum without any donor site morbidity, Dr. Harris can customize your surgery based on your unique anatomy for optimal function and comfort.

Am I a candidate for labral reconstruction?

To determine if you’re a candidate for labral reconstruction, Dr. Harris begins with a consultation and exam to understand your symptoms. He asks about pain in your hip, any trauma to the area, and activities that worsen your symptoms. Critically, Dr. Harris will analyze all of your previous operative reports and photographs and videos. After this, he measures the range of motion in your hip joint and checks the strength and function of the muscles and nerves surrounding your hips.

After your exam, Dr. Harris orders X-rays and an MRI of your hip to better understand your unique anatomy and the extent of damage to your labrum. Based on his findings, Dr. Harris may recommend labral reconstruction or another procedure to help you.

What happens during labral reconstruction?

Dr. Harris offers arthroscopic and open surgeries for labral reconstruction. During either surgery, you’re placed under anesthesia, and Dr. Harris makes the appropriate incisions to access the surgical site. He repairs or reconstructs damaged cartilage from the area and attaches the graft tissue to the socket of your hip with suture anchors (all suture, no metal, no plastic).

After your surgery, Dr. Harris recommends physical therapy to help regain strength in your hip and restore full range of motion.

The operation is normally an outpatient procedure, generally coming in and going home on the same day. Outpatient physical therapy usually begins within the first day or two following surgery. Afterward, you recover with active physical therapy for about three to six months before returning to your normal activities.

Dr. Harris is one of very few surgeons in the United States and the only surgeon in Houston to perform “postless” hip arthroscopy, which eliminates the risk of perineal pain, pudendal nerve injury, and a variety of other traction-related complications that are not uncommon during and after hip arthroscopy.

Dr. Harris performs over 300 arthroscopic hip surgeries per year and has performed over 1,500 in his career.

To learn more about labral reconstruction, schedule a consultation with Joshua D. Harris, MD, online or by phone.