Is surgery needed for a labrum tear?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife has been diagnosed with a labrum tear. She is 37 years old. She wants to get a second opinion on the treatment options. Is surgery the only option available? Will not the labrum heal on its own? Currently, she is on ayurvedic treatment. I have attached a few files for your reference.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through the copies of the investigations you posted (attachment removed to protect patient identity). My interpretations are as follows:

1. She has arthritis of the hip joint with features of sacroiliitis (inflammation of one or both of the sacroiliac joints) as seen on the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). There is a possibility of ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis that affects the spine).

2. She has a labrum tear for which she might need an arthroscopy. This can be repaired.

3. I suggest she get an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C-reactive protein), and also HLA-B27 (human leukocyte antigen B27).

4. I also suggest she consult a rheumatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

5. From the reports of the clinical examination and the measure of disease activity, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the best medicines for her for the time being as they will help her with the ankylosing spondylitis.

6. I also suggest she take Pantoprazole 40 mg in the morning before food. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him/her and take the medicines with their consent.

Regards.