Bankart repair is a surgical procedure used to treat a type of labral tear in the shoulder joint called a Bankart tear. The labrum is a cuff of cartilage that encircles the shoulder socket and helps to provide stability to the joint. A Bankart tear specifically refers to a tear in the inferior glenohumeral ligament of the labrum that commonly occurs in younger patients who have experienced a shoulder dislocation. This tear can make the shoulder susceptible to recurring dislocations in patients under 30 years of age. Bankart repair involves surgically repairing the torn labrum to provide additional stability to the joint and reduce the risk of future dislocations.
Indications for Bankart repair include recurrent anterior shoulder dislocations, shoulder instability, and shoulder pain due to a Bankart lesion. The procedure may be recommended for younger patients with a Bankart tear that makes the shoulder prone to repeat dislocation. It is also indicated for patients who have persistent symptoms of instability despite non-surgical management, such as physical therapy and immobilization. In some cases, Bankart repair may be recommended for patients with a first-time dislocation, particularly those who are engaged in high-risk activities or occupations. Doctor will evaluate the patient's individual circumstances and provide advice on whether a Bankart repair is necessary. The final decision to undergo the procedure will be based on this evaluation.
During an arthroscopic Bankart procedure, Surgeon will create a few small incisions over the patient's shoulder joint. An arthroscope, which is a slender tube equipped with a light and a small video camera at the end, will be inserted through one of the incisions into the shoulder joint. The television monitor will display images of inside of the patient's shoulder joint that are transmitted by the video camera for examination. Using small surgical instruments through the other tiny incisions, surgeon will trim the edges of the glenoid cavity. Suture anchors will then be inserted to reattach the detached labrum to the glenoid. Finally, the small incisions will be closed and covered with a bandage.
Arthroscopy causes minimal disruption to the other shoulder structures and does not require Dr. Basheer to detach and reattach the overlying shoulder muscle (subscapularis) as with the open technique. The decision to perform a Bankart repair using arthroscopy will depend on the individual patient's circumstances and surgeon’s advice.
