Arthroscopic treatment of recurrent traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder using suture anchors

ABSTRACT

This study for arthroscopic treatment of recurrent post-traumatic anterior dislocation included 18 patients [17 males and 1 female] ranging between 18 years old and 31 years old [average 23 years]. Fifteen patients had history of recurrent post traumatic shoulder dislocations [range is 2 to 5 dislocations], while 3 patients had history of recurrent subluxation after single dislocation. Patients included are patients with recurrent posttraumatic anterior dislocation and no more than five dislocations, with arthroscopic ally confirmed anterior detachment of the glenoid labrum, and good quality and competence of the inferior glenohumeral ligament and symptomatic subluxation. Beach - chair position and posterior and anterior working portals were used. At least 3 suture anchors [G II Mitek] at 5, 3 and 1 o'clock positions were used to fix the labrum - ligament complex to the glenoid using sliding arthroscopic knots. Using the modified Rowe scoring system for preoperative and postoperative patient evaluation, there was marked improvement in postoperative Rowe score regarding stability, motion, pain and function. The score improved to 35 - 100 points [average 85.8] compared to score range 25 - 45 points [average 32.7 points] preoperatively. This technique is thus effective with results that mimic open repair with less operative morbidity