Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: Restoring Shoulder Stability After Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations are a common injury, especially in active individuals and athletes, that can lead to ongoing instability and discomfort. When the shoulder dislocates, the ligaments and cartilage that hold the joint together may tear, leading to recurrent dislocations and a decreased range of motion. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that addresses this instability by repairing the damaged cartilage and ligaments, restoring the shoulder’s stability and function.

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What is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair?

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a procedure used to treat shoulder instability caused by a tear in the labrum, a rim of cartilage that helps hold the ball of the shoulder joint (humeral head) securely in its socket (glenoid). When the shoulder dislocates, the labrum often tears—a condition known as a Bankart lesion. This procedure uses small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to reattach the torn labrum to the socket, restoring stability and reducing the likelihood of future dislocations.

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Why Arthroscopic Bankart Repair is Needed

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced recurrent shoulder dislocations or are at risk of further dislocations due to a previous injury. Common reasons for this surgery include:

1. Recurrent Shoulder Dislocations
   A single traumatic shoulder dislocation often weakens the joint, making it prone to repeated dislocations even with minor movements or impacts.
2. Labral Tear (Bankart Lesion)
   When the labrum tears during a shoulder dislocation, it leads to instability that is unlikely to heal on its own. Repairing the tear is necessary to regain stability.
3. Instability During Physical Activity
   Athletes or highly active individuals experiencing shoulder instability during sports or exercise can benefit from Bankart repair, which provides the necessary stability to resume these activities.
4. Non-Response to Conservative Treatments
   If physical therapy, medications, or other conservative treatments haven’t resolved the instability, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore the shoulder’s structural integrity.

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The Arthroscopic Bankart Repair Procedure

Arthroscopic Bankart repair involves several key steps:

1. Anesthesia
   The patient receives either general anesthesia or a regional block to ensure comfort during the surgery.
2. Arthroscopic Access
   The surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder joint and inserts an arthroscope (a thin tube with a camera) to visualize the inside of the shoulder on a monitor.
3. Identification of the Bankart Lesion
   Using the arthroscope, the surgeon locates the torn labrum and assesses the extent of damage in the shoulder joint.
4. Labrum Reattachment
   Specialized instruments are used to place small anchors with sutures in the glenoid (socket). The surgeon then reattaches the torn labrum to the bone, securing it tightly to restore stability.
5. Closing the Incisions
   Once the repair is complete, the incisions are closed, and the shoulder is bandaged.

This minimally invasive approach allows for a quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort compared to open surgery.

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Benefits of Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

Arthroscopic Bankart repair offers several benefits for patients suffering from shoulder instability:

1. Restored Stability
   By reattaching the torn labrum, this procedure provides lasting stability, reducing the risk of future dislocations and allowing patients to return to normal activities.
2. Minimally Invasive
   The arthroscopic technique involves smaller incisions, leading to less scarring, reduced pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
3. Enhanced Shoulder Function
   Patients often regain a full range of motion and strength in the shoulder, allowing them to participate in physical activities without fear of dislocation.
4. Improved Quality of Life
   For those with chronic shoulder instability, Bankart repair provides significant relief from discomfort and the limitations caused by shoulder instability.

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Recovery After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

Recovery from arthroscopic Bankart repair generally follows these stages:

1. Initial Immobilization
   The shoulder is placed in a sling for a few weeks to allow the repaired labrum to heal without strain. During this period, patients should avoid lifting or moving the shoulder excessively.
2. Physical Therapy
   Physical therapy begins with gentle, passive range-of-motion exercises and gradually progresses to active movements. Eventually, strength-training exercises are introduced to restore shoulder stability and function.
3. Gradual Return to Activities
   Most patients can resume light activities and daily tasks within 6-8 weeks, though full recovery may take 3-6 months. Athletes or individuals with high physical demands may require additional time before resuming sports.
4. Long-Term Care
   Adhering to prescribed exercises and avoiding high-risk activities for a few months helps ensure a successful recovery. With proper care, patients can expect lasting results and minimal risk of re-injury.

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Is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair Right for You?

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is an effective treatment for individuals who have experienced recurrent shoulder dislocations and have a diagnosed Bankart lesion. If you struggle with shoulder instability that limits your daily activities or causes discomfort, consulting with an orthopedic surgeon can help determine if this procedure is right for you.