Hip labral tear: surgery or just therapy? new study aims to settle the debate
NCT ID NCT03909178
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study compares two treatments for a torn hip labrum in people aged 40 and older: arthroscopic surgery to repair the tear versus physical therapy alone. Researchers want to find out which approach leads to better hip function and less pain. The goal is to help doctors and patients decide when surgery is truly needed and when conservative care may be enough.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Hip arthroscopy surgery with labral repair
What this could lead to
If this trial succeeds, it could show that physical therapy is as good as surgery for many older patients, helping avoid unnecessary operations.
What could go wrong
This is a relatively small trial (110 people) and results may not apply to everyone. Also, some patients may still need surgery later if therapy fails.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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MGH, Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States