NSIC Articles

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: Fixing Shoulder Instability for Good

Shoulder dislocations can be painful, limiting, and often recurring. For individuals who experience repeated shoulder dislocations, especially due to trauma or sports injuries, one of the most effective long-term solutions is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair. This minimally invasive surgical procedure is specifically designed to fix anterior shoulder instability by repairing the torn labrum, a soft cartilage rim that helps stabilize the shoulder joint.

If you're struggling with repeated dislocations or fear that your shoulder might “pop out” during physical activity, understanding Arthroscopic Bankart Repair could be your first step toward a pain-free, stable future.

What Is Shoulder Instability?

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body, but this flexibility comes at a cost — stability. The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the ball (head of the humerus) fits into the shallow socket (glenoid) of the shoulder blade. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that deepens the socket and helps keep the ball in place.

When the labrum is torn — usually due to trauma such as a fall or a forceful hit — the joint becomes unstable. This condition is commonly known as a Bankart lesion, and it’s one of the primary causes of recurring dislocations in young athletes and active individuals.

Understanding the Bankart Lesion

A Bankart lesion refers to a tear of the anterior (front) part of the labrum, which typically occurs when the shoulder is forcefully dislocated. Once torn, the labrum does not heal well on its own. As a result, the shoulder is more likely to dislocate again, even with minimal force or movement.

Symptoms include:

• A feeling of looseness or the shoulder "giving way"
• Pain during certain arm movements
• Reduced range of motion
• Weakness in the shoulder
• Frequent dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations)

What Is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair?

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that reattaches the torn labrum to the glenoid rim using small anchors and sutures. The surgery is performed through tiny incisions with the help of an arthroscope, a small camera that projects images onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to work precisely inside the joint.

This approach avoids the need for large incisions, reduces recovery time, and lowers the risk of complications compared to open surgery.

Who Needs Arthroscopic Bankart Repair?

This procedure is recommended for:

• Patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocations
• Young, active individuals involved in contact or overhead sports
• Patients with confirmed labral tears on MRI or arthroscopy
• People for whom conservative treatments (like physiotherapy) have failed

It's especially effective in cases where the bone structure is still intact and the primary issue is a soft tissue tear.

The Surgical Procedure: Step by Step

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (nerve block).
2. Arthroscope Insertion: Small incisions (about 1 cm) are made around the shoulder to insert the arthroscope and instruments.
3. Labrum Inspection: The surgeon evaluates the torn labrum and other structures within the shoulder.
4. Anchor Placement: Tiny suture anchors are drilled into the glenoid bone near the tear.
5. Labrum Reattachment: Sutures from the anchors are used to pull and secure the labrum back into its anatomical position.
6. Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures or sterile strips, and the arm is placed in a sling.

The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery is a vital part of the success of Arthroscopic Bankart Repair. A structured rehabilitation plan ensures proper healing and minimizes the risk of re-injury.

Phase 1: Immobilization (0–4 Weeks)

• The arm is kept in a sling to protect the repair.
• Gentle wrist, hand, and elbow movements are encouraged.
• No overhead or external rotation movements.

Phase 2: Early Motion (4–8 Weeks)

• Gradual passive range of motion exercises begin.
• Physical therapy focuses on restoring flexibility without stressing the repair.

Phase 3: Strengthening (8–16 Weeks)

• Introduction of resistance exercises.
• Strengthening of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers.

Phase 4: Return to Activity (4–6 Months)

• Full range of motion and strength are restored.
• Patients gradually return to sports or heavy physical activity with medical clearance.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, less scarring, and quicker healing
• High Success Rate: Most patients regain full shoulder stability and function
• Lower Risk of Redislocation: Particularly effective for younger, active individuals
• Improved Confidence: Eliminates the fear of future dislocations

Studies show that over 85–90% of patients who undergo Arthroscopic Bankart Repair can return to their previous levels of activity, including sports, without recurrence of instability.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, Arthroscopic Bankart Repair carries some risks, including:

• Infection
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Nerve injury (rare)
• Failure of the repair (especially if rehab is not followed)
• Recurrent instability in cases of poor healing or high-impact trauma

These risks are minimized with proper surgical technique and strict adherence to postoperative rehab protocols.

Preventing Future Shoulder Instability

While surgery significantly reduces the chances of re-injury, patients must adopt certain precautions:

• Maintain strong shoulder and core muscles
• Avoid risky movements or sports during early recovery
• Warm up properly before workouts or games
• Listen to your body — if you feel pain or weakness, stop and rest

Preventive measures and commitment to rehabilitation are key to long-term success.

A Stable Shoulder, A Stronger You

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair offers a reliable and effective solution for those suffering from recurring shoulder dislocations. With modern minimally invasive techniques, skilled surgical intervention, and a well-structured rehab plan, patients can expect to regain full function and return to the activities they love, without fear of instability.

If shoulder dislocations have disrupted your life, it might be time to consider Arthroscopic Bankart Repair. By addressing the root cause and committing to recovery, you can reclaim strength, stability, and confidence in your shoulder once again.