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.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

1. Arthroscopic repair of the tear is the first line of treatment and an ideal way.

2. The chances of spontaneous healing are rare. It is always best to get it surgically corrected.

Regards.