Gluteal Tendon Repair

1. The patient experiences persistent lateral hip pain, weakness in the gluteal muscles, or difficulty walking/limping that significantly impacts their quality of life.
2. Diagnostic imaging (ultrasound or MRI) confirms a complete or partial tear of the gluteal tendons.
3. The tear is unresponsive to conservative treatments.

The goals of surgical repair include pain relief, the ability to walk and do activities of daily living, and an improved quality of life.

The procedure can be performed via a small open incision or endoscopically. Hip endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small portals with a camera and is often performed as an outpatient procedure. Benefits include less postoperative pain and faster recovery and healing. The tendon tear size and the amount of retraction (how far back the tendon is torn) help to determine which surgical approach is appropriate.

During the surgery, the torn tendon is reattached to the bone with the help of suture anchors that are inserted into the bone. Your surgeon may also perform a bursectomy to remove the inflamed bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) overlying the tendons, which also helps with lateral hip pain.

Recovery and rehabilitation from gluteal tendon repair are longer and generally take 6 months to 1 year.

• Immediate Postoperative Period: Weight bearing is restricted six weeks after gluteal tendon repair surgery. Crutches or a walker are used for walking with no weight through the operated side. Depending on your surgeon’s preference, a hip brace may be recommended. Protecting the repair, pain management, and reducing inflammation are primary concerns.
• Rehabilitation: A structured rehabilitation program with a physical therapist is critical for optimal recovery. The initial phases focus on protecting the repair through limited weight-bearing activities, gradually progressing to strengthening exercises for the gluteal muscles and other hip stabilizers, which start around three months.
• Recovery Time: The full recovery period can take six months or longer. Depending on individual recovery, return to sports, impact activity, or heavy lifting is typically initiated no sooner than 6 months.
• Long-term Care: Continuing with exercise programs to maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance is crucial for long-term outcomes. Patients are advised on lifestyle modifications and activities to avoid recurrent injury.

Gluteal tendon repair is a significant surgery with a substantial recovery period. Still, it can greatly improve the quality of life for patients with debilitating hip pain and dysfunction due to gluteal tendon tears. The success of the surgery is heavily dependent on adherence to a carefully planned rehabilitation program and the patient’s commitment to following the postoperative care plan prescribed by their healthcare provider.