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Lancaster, CA 93534
Tel: 661-942-6577

Location | Southern California Hip Institute | North Hollywood | Glendale Burbank | Encino | Sherman Oaks | Van Nuys
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Hip Abductor Tendon Repair

How is hip abductor tendon repair performed?

Hip abductor tendon repair is a procedure designed to treat painful tendinosis and tearing of the hip abductor tendons (see hip abductor). The outpatient procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1 – 2 hours. A small (3 – 4 inch), cosmetic incision is made on the outer aspect of the hip and the area of tearing/tendinosis is identified and debrided along with the inflamed trochanteric bursa. Sutures are placed through the tendons and bone anchors are utilized to repair the tendon back to the bone. A window is left in the IT band to decompress the tendon repair and take pressure off of the trochanter to prevent recurrence of trochanteric bursitis. Post-operatively, patients are instructed to use crutches or a walker for up to 6 weeks to protect the repair.

What is the typical timeframe for recovery from hip abductor tendon repair?

It is important to realize that the speed of recovery depends largely on the extent and type of tearing/tendinosis along with other patient related factors. Partial thickness tears that have not completely separated from the bone or complete tears that are identified early (acute) tend to recover fastest. Chronic tears (present for > 6 months) that have completely separated from the bone (retracted) tend to form scar tissue and adhesions, which complicate surgical repair and prolong recovery. Generally speaking, though, the majority of patients can expect to:

  • Go home on the day of surgery
  • Resume normal daily household activities within 1 – 2 days
  • Take prescription pain medication for 3 – 5 days
  • Return to a desk-job with intermittent walking at 7 – 10 days
  • Drive a car at 2 weeks (chronic/retracted tears may take longer)
  • Walk unassisted and without a limp by 4 – 6 weeks (acute/partial thickness) or 3 months (chronic/retracted)
  • Start running at 8 – 10 weeks (acute/partial thickness) or 3 – 4 months (chronic/retracted)
  • Return to unrestricted sports participation or a labor-intensive occupation at 2 – 3 months (acute/partial thickness) or 4 – 6 months (chronic/retracted)

Will I need to do physical therapy following hip abductor tendon repair?

Absolutely. Physical therapy is critical to ensure that you get the best outcome from your surgery. With the guidance of your therapist, you will progressively advance through the various stages of your rehabilitation, as outlined in our post-operative protocol. Your therapist will have some flexibility to safely modify your progression in order to meet your specific goals and expectations.

Will I need to wear a brace after hip abductor tendon repair?

No. Hip braces for abductor tendon repair tend to be large, bulky, and cumbersome to navigate leading to decreased mobility and potentially increased risk of falling. The best way to protect the repair is to limit weight bearing and use crutches or a walker as instructed. Additionally, a pillow placed between the legs at night will keep tension off of the repair.

How successful is hip abductor tendon repair?

The vast majority of scientific studies have produced good to excellent outcomes in 80 – 90% of appropriately selected patients undergoing hip abductor tendon repair. The reproducibility of these results is dependent on many patient and injury related factors. Dr. Garabekyan will help you understand your unique condition and what you stand to gain with surgery, so that you can define realistic goals and expectations. At SCHI, your satisfaction is our priority.

Am I a good candidate for hip abductor tendon repair?

Whether hip abductor tendon repair is a worthwhile option for you depends on a number of factors, including:

  • Your age
  • The extent of tearing or tendinosis
  • The extent of scarring or retraction

In general, the outcomes of hip abductor tendon repair are best for acute tears or partial thickness tears with good tissue quality. Dr. Garabekyan will guide you through the various considerations in helping you decide whether surgery is right for you.

Choosing the treatment option that is right for you involves careful consideration of your diagnosis, duration and severity of symptoms, desired level of activity, as well as social and financial elements. You are not alone in this process.

As you research your condition, please write down all of your questions and bring them with you to your next appointment. Dr. Garabekyan and his team at SCHI will take time to address all of your concerns, until you are completely satisfied with your treatment plan.

We look forward to helping you get your life back.

Related Topics: Hip Abductor, Trochanteric Bursa

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Dr. Garabekyan Associations | North Hollywood | Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Glendale Burbank | Encino | Sherman Oaks | Van Nuys Dr. Garabekyan Associations | North Hollywood | Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Glendale Burbank | Encino | Sherman Oaks | Van Nuys

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Tel: 310.595.1030 Fax: 310.582.5619