Analysis of the functional results of arthroscopic Bankart repair in posttraumatic recurrent anterior dislocations of shoulder

Abstract

Background: The Bankart lesion represents the most common form of labro-ligamentous injury in patients with traumatic dislocations of the shoulder leading to shoulder instability. We report the clinical outcome of arthroscopic repair of Bankart lesion in 50 patients.

Materials and methods: Sixty five patients with posttraumatic anterior dislocation of shoulder were treated by arthroscopic repair from Jan 2005 to Nov 2008. Fifty patients, with an average age of 26.83 years (range 18-45 years), were reviewed in the study. The average followup period was 27 months (range 24-36 months). University of California Los Angeles shoulder rating scale was used to determine the outcome after surgery. The recurrence rates, range of motion, as well as postoperative function and return to sporting activities were evaluated.

Results: Thirty six patients (72.0%) had excellent results, whereas seven patients (14.0%) had good results. The mean pre- and postoperative range of external rotation was 80.38° and 75.18°, respectively. Eighty-six percent patients had stability compared with the normal sided shoulder and were able to return to sports. There were no cases of redislocation observed in this study; however, three cases had mild laxity of the joint.

Conclusion: Arthroscopic Bankart repair with the use of suture anchors is a reliable treatment method, with good clinical outcomes, excellent postoperative shoulder motion and low recurrence rates.

Keywords: Arthroscopic repair; Bankart lesion; shoulder instability.

Figure 1

Arthroscopic view showing probe under the torn anterior labrum of a Bankart lesion

Figure 2

Arthroscopic view showing inserting the bioabsorbable suture anchor preloaded with nonabsorbable suture through the anterior-inferior portal

Figure 3

Arthroscopic view showing a curved, sharp suture-passing device is used to pierce the capsule and labrum lower than the anchor position, ensuring that the capsule and labrum will be shifted up to an anatomic position

Figure 4

Arthroscopic view showing a completed repair with anchors in positions, Note the position of the knots on the capsular side of the repair and the restoration of an anterior bumper effect by the labrum