Bankart Repair
Is a Bankart lesion?
A Bankart lesion is a tear or detachment of the labrum in the shoulder joint, which is a cartilage ring that helps stabilize the joint. This injury commonly occurs as a result of a shoulder dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation) and can lead to joint instability and recurring shoulder dislocations, which can be painful and debilitating.
There are variations in the severity and extent of Bankart lesions with some involving significant bone loss in the glenoid socket called a bony Bankart lesion. In such cases, additional procedures like the Latarjet procedure, which involves bone block transfer, may be considered to address the bone loss, and provide more stability to the shoulder joint.
The goal of surgery is to stabilize the shoulder and prevent recurrent dislocations and subluxations. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is the stabilization technique of choice.
A Bankart repair is a surgical procedure performed to treat an unstable dislocating shoulder. It involves repairing a specific type of shoulder injury known as a Bankart lesion.
Arthroscopic Bankart repair is minimally invasive surgery to repair a Bankart lesion.
- It is the most utilized technique in the management of symptomatic shoulder instability.
- It is the most appropriate surgery for a simple Bankart lesion without significant glenoid bone loss.
- When the bone damage is involved open stabilization surgery or the Latarjet procedure is indicated.
The arthroscopic approach allows the surgeon to visualize and repair the damaged structures inside the shoulder joint through small incisions which resulting in less tissue bleeding and damage, faster recovery, and reduced post-operative pain.
The repair is performed under general and regional anesthesia to ensure the patient feels no pain. Dr. Reynolds will make several small incisions around the shoulder joint and insert the arthroscope which has a small camera. This allows him to visualize the inside of the shoulder joint, assess the damage and find any other injuries or abnormalities that may need to be addressed.
The damaged labrum is carefully debrided, and the underlying bone is prepared to help reattach the labrum. This may include scraping the bone to create a bleeding surface, which enhances healing.
Suture anchors are placed into the bone, and sutures are passed through the torn labrum. The sutures are then tied, reattaching the labrum to the bone and restoring the normal anatomical position. Then Dr. Reynolds will evaluate the repair to ensure the labrum is secured and stability is restored and will close the small incisions with sutures or skin adhesive.
Recovery includes immobilization in a sling for several weeks to allow the tissues to heal, followed by a structured physical therapy program to regain range of motion, strength, and functionality. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Reynolds will ensure proper healing and recovery.
Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a technically demanding procedure that requires a high level of expertise. It has proven effective in treating Bankart lesions, restoring stability to the shoulder, and allowing a return to normal function. It should be performed by a surgeon like Dr. Masi Reynolds who has the skills and experience in arthroscopic shoulder techniques.
