Bankart Repair

What Is a Bankart Lesion?

A Bankart lesion is a tear of the labrum (the rim of cartilage around the shoulder socket) that often occurs after a shoulder dislocation. The labrum helps stabilize the shoulder joint, and when it is torn, the shoulder may repeatedly slip out of place (instability).

What Is Arthroscopic Bankart Repair?

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a minimally invasive surgery to fix a torn labrum using small incisions, a tiny camera (arthroscope), and specialized instruments. The torn labrum is reattached to the bone using sutures and anchors, restoring stability to the shoulder joint.

When Is It Needed?

Your doctor may recommend this procedure if:

You have recurrent shoulder dislocations.
Imaging shows a Bankart lesion or labral tear.
Non-surgical treatments (rest, physiotherapy, bracing) have not prevented instability.
You want to return to sports or activities requiring shoulder stability.

The Procedure Step-by-Step

Evaluation – MRI and physical exam confirm the labral tear.
Anesthesia –General or regional anesthesia is given.
Arthroscopy – A small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint.
Repair – The torn labrum is reattached to the socket using sutures and anchors.
Closure – Small incisions are closed, and the shoulder is bandaged.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Hospital stay:Usually same-day or overnight.
Immobilization:The arm is kept in a sling for several weeks.
Physiotherapy: Begins gradually to restore movement and strength.
Return to sports: Typically 4–6 months, depending on healing and rehab progress.

Benefits

Minimally invasive with smaller incisions.
Restores shoulder stability and prevents recurrent dislocations.
Less pain and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Helps athletes and active individuals return to sports.

Risks & Considerations

Infection, stiffness, or re-tear of the labrum (rare).
Recovery requires patience and strict adherence to physiotherapy.
Healing time varies depending on age, activity level, and severity of injury.

Key Message for Patients

Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a safe and effective surgery for patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations due to labral tears. By reattaching the labrum through minimally invasive techniques, the procedure restores stability, relieves pain, and helps patients return to sports and daily activities. With proper rehabilitation, most patients achieve excellent long-term outcomes.

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