Bankart Repair: A Comprehensive Guide to Shoulder Stability

The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile and complex joints in the human body, enabling us to perform a wide range of activities. However, this very mobility makes the shoulder prone to injuries, particularly dislocations. A common injury associated with shoulder dislocations is a Bankart lesion, which often requires surgical intervention known as Bankart repair. Here, we will be having a quick look at Bankart repair. Before that, let us have a brief look at Bankart lesions. 

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Understanding Bankart Lesion

A Bankart lesion is a specific type of injury to the shoulder joint that occurs when the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint, is torn. This injury frequently accompanies anterior shoulder dislocations, where the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the glenoid socket, often due to a fall, sports-related trauma, or other accidents.

Significance of Bankart Repair

A Bankart lesion can cause chronic shoulder instability, leading to recurrent dislocations and restricting a person's ability to perform routine tasks. If left untreated, it may result in long-term complications, including rotator cuff tears, joint degeneration, and chronic pain. Bankart repair is crucial in restoring shoulder stability, preventing recurrent dislocations, and improving overall quality of life.

How is Bankart Repair Done?

Bankart repair is typically performed using arthroscopic techniques, which are minimally invasive and result in faster recovery than open surgery. The procedure is usually carried out under general anesthesia, and it involves the following steps:

Arthroscopic Inspection: The surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder joint and inserts an arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera attached to it, to visualize the damaged structures inside the joint.

Labral Repair: Once the surgeon identifies the torn labrum, they use specialized instruments to reattach it to the glenoid using suture anchors. These anchors are drilled into the bone, providing a stable anchor point for the labrum to heal.

Capsular Shift: In some cases, the shoulder capsule may also be stretched or torn, contributing to instability. The surgeon may tighten and repair the capsule to enhance shoulder stability further.

Subacromial Decompression (Optional): If there are signs of impingement syndrome, where the rotator cuff tendons are compressed during arm movements, the surgeon may perform a subacromial decompression to create more space and alleviate pressure.

Closure: Once the repairs are complete, the incisions are closed using stitches or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After Bankart repair, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential to optimize recovery and regain full shoulder function. Rehabilitation typically starts soon after surgery and involves a carefully tailored combination of exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in gradually reintroducing the shoulder to everyday activities and sports.

Patients are advised to follow their surgeon's and physical therapist's instructions diligently, avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the healing shoulder. It is essential to be patient throughout the recovery process, as it may take several months for the shoulder to fully heal and regain its pre-injury strength.

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