The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint made up by the scapula(shoulder blade) and humerus(upper arm bone).
It is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and tendons, allowing for a wide range of motion.
The labrum, a ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket, stabilizes the joint.
A labral tear, often caused by trauma such as a fall or repetitive overuse, leads to shoulder pain and instability.
A typical result of a labral tear is a Bankart lesion, which causes recurrent dislocations and shoulder joint instability.
What is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair?
It is a minimally invasive surgery aimed at reattaching and tightening the torn labrum in the shoulder joint, helping to restore stability and prevent further dislocations.
This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, utilizing an arthroscope—a small fiber-optic device with a camera that enables the surgeon to view the inside of the shoulder joint on a monitor.
Small incisions are made in the shoulder to insert the arthroscope and the surgical instruments necessary to repair and reattach the torn labrum.
Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery
The arthroscopic approach to Bankart repair offers several advantages over traditional open surgery.
Since the incisions are smaller, there is less trauma to the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissues, leading to faster healing, a shorter recovery, and less scarring.
Additionally, arthroscopic procedures are often conducted on an outpatient basis, enabling patients to go home the same day.
This minimally invasive approach leads to a quicker return to normal activities than open surgical methods.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
Following arthroscopic Bankart repair, your surgeon will recommend specific measures to recover successfully.
Pain management is typically achieved through prescribed medications, and applying ice packs to the shoulder can help reduce postoperative swelling.
A rehabilitation program focusing on improving shoulder strength and range of motion is crucial for recovery.
Patients are usually recommended to return to normal activities once they feel comfortable. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled 8-10 days after surgery to monitor progress and address concerns.
Risks and Complications
While arthroscopic Bankart repair is generally safe, it carries potential risks and complications, including
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Delayed healing
In some cases, patients may experience stiffness in the shoulder joint following surgery.
Following your surgeon's postoperative instructions carefully is essential to minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcome.
Restore shoulder stability with Arthroscopic Bankart Repair—schedule your procedure today!
