Labral repair is an advanced hip surgery offered in Chicago by Dr. Joel Williams to address femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and associated labral tears. In FAI, abnormal bone morphology in the femoral head or acetabulum causes repetitive contact, damaging the labrum (the cartilage rim around the socket). Over time, this creates pain, clicking, and joint degeneration. Dr. Williams performs labral repair (or reconstruction when needed) to restore joint stability, reduce pain, and preserve hip function.
In a healthy hip, the femoral head glides freely in the socket (acetabulum). Impingement can occur through a few mechanisms:
Cam deformity: the femoral head/neck shape is not smooth, causing abnormal contact with the socket
Pincer deformity: the acetabulum overcovers or protrudes, impinging the femoral neck
Less common forms of impingement also exist which can be caused by conditions such as SCFE, Perthes disease, femoral retroversion/torsion
This repeated contact stresses the labrum (a ring of cartilage) and can lead to tears, cartilage damage, and accelerated wear.
When torn, patients often experience:
Deep groin or hip pain (especially with hip flexion)
Clicking, catching, or locking sensations
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Feeling of instability
Worsened symptoms with activity, twisting, or prolonged sitting
Diagnosing labral tears, and the underlying causes, typically involves imaging (X-rays, CT, and MRI, sometimes with contrast), physical exam maneuvers (FADIR, etc.), and sometimes diagnostic injections to confirm whether the hip joint is the pain source.
When the labrum is still repairable, Dr. Williams uses arthroscopic or mini-open techniques to reattach the torn labrum to the acetabulum using anchors and sutures, restoring the “suction-seal” of the joint. In cases where the labrum is extensively damaged and irreparable, labral reconstruction (using graft tissue) may be performed instead.
Often, the labral repair is combined with reshaping of bone (femur, acetabulum) to eliminate impingement and protect the labral repair from future damage. In more extensive cases, a surgical dislocation may be used for full visualization and treatment.
Anesthesia & setup: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room setting.
Arthroscopic technique: Small incisions (portals) are made and an arthroscope with a camera is used to view the inside of the hip joint. Fluid is used to expand the joint space for visibility.
Repair / reconstruction: Torn labral tissue is either repaired to the socket or reconstructed if necessary. Anchors and sutures are used to secure the tissue.
Bone recontouring (osteochondroplasty): Bony bumps or spurs that cause impingement are shaved or reshaped to allow smooth, impingement-free motion.
Closure & post-op protocol: Incisions are closed, and a brace or assistive devices (crutches) are used during early recovery.
In many cases, the procedure can be done on an outpatient basis or with one overnight stay in Chicago.
Week 0–2
Use of crutches or limited weight bearing to protect repair
Gentle passive motion and range-of-motion therapy
Pain control, swelling management
Week 3–6
Progression to partial or full weight bearing (depending on surgeon’s plan)
Begin strengthening of the hip, core, and surrounding musculature
Continue flexibility and mobility work
Months 3–6
Gradual return to more dynamic activities, low-impact sports
Focused physical therapy for power, endurance, return to sport or lifestyle goals
6–12+ months
Many patients return to full activity, including athletics or demanding motion, depending on repair success, preexisting damage, and adherence to rehab.
As with any surgery, labral repair / reconstruction carries risk:
Infection, bleeding, or blood clots (DVT)
Nerve irritation or temporary numbness around incision sites
Failure to relieve pain or persistent symptoms
Re-tear of labrum or graft
Overgrowth of bone / residual impingement requiring revision
Joint stiffness, scarring, or prolonged rehabilitation
Dr. Williams carefully assesses each patient to determine if labral repair is appropriate, and plans the technique to minimize risk and optimize outcome.
Relief of pain and catching symptoms
Restored labral function and hip joint stability
Reduced progression of cartilage damage and arthritis
Improved motion, strength, and function
Ability to return to physically active lifestyle
Many patients experience significant improvements in daily activities, sports, and overall quality of life.
Board-certified hip surgeon with deep experience in labral repair, reconstruction, and impingement correction
Integrated surgical and rehabilitation team in Chicago, serving neighborhoods and suburbs
Personalized care: tailoring technique to patient anatomy, goals, and degree of damage
Patients from across the Midwest and beyond come to Chicago for Dr. Williams’ expertise
Thorough preoperative planning, imaging, and follow-up to drive optimal results
If you are dealing with groin pain, clicking, instability, or suspect a labral tear in Chicago or nearby areas, schedule a consultation with Dr. Williams. He will review your imaging, assess your hip anatomy, and let you know if labrum repair or reconstruction is an appropriate option.
If your doctor suggests hip treatment, seek a second opinion and explore the best option.
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