What is a Bankart Lesion?

A Bankart lesion is a specific type of injury that occurs within the glenohumeral joint, which is formed by the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) fitting into the glenoid socket of the scapula (shoulder blade). This ball-and-socket joint allows for a wide range of motion but is susceptible to injury, especially from sports-related activities. A Bankart lesion results from a forward (anterior) shoulder dislocation that damages the connective tissues surrounding the glenoid labrum. This damage weakens the soft-tissue restraints and can lead to recurrent shoulder dislocations.

What is the Treatment for a Bankart Lesion?

Conservative Treatment: For mild cases where the shoulder ligaments are stretched or partially torn, conservative therapies may be sufficient.

These include:

• Immobilization: Using a sling or other devices to prevent further damage.
• Pain and Inflammation Management: Applying rest, ice, and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).
• Physical Therapy: Once pain and inflammation subside, a physical therapy program may be prescribed to strengthen and improve the range of motion of the shoulder.

Surgical Treatment: For severe cases or when conservative methods fail to provide stability, a Bankart repair, also known as capsulolabral reconstruction, may be necessary. Dr. Khaleel, Senior Consultant Arthroscopic Shoulder and Sports Surgeon at Kims Alshifa, Perintalmanna, Kerala, India, performs this minimally invasive procedure to restore stability to the shoulder joint.

How is a Bankart Repair Performed?

Dr. Khaleel, Senior Consultant Arthroscopic Shoulder and Sports Surgeon at Kims Alshifa, Perintalmanna, Kerala, India, often uses an arthroscopic approach for Bankart repair.

Here’s how the procedure is generally carried out:

• Anesthesia: A nerve block is administered for anesthesia.
• Arthroscopic Examination: Small incisions are made around the shoulder, and an arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted to examine the tendons, ligaments, and labrum of the glenohumeral joint.
• Repair Process: Damaged tissues are removed using specialized instruments. The labrum and anterior shoulder capsule are then reattached to their correct position using surgical anchors secured within the bone.

In some cases, open surgery may be required if there is significant bone loss or if previous arthroscopic repairs have been unsuccessful. This technique involves a larger incision to provide a better view of the shoulder and may involve a tendon graft (autograft or allograft) to restore damaged ligaments and cartilage.

What is the Recovery Period Like After a Bankart Repair?

Recovery time varies depending on the surgical technique used. Although arthroscopic surgery typically results in a quicker recovery, healing of the soft tissues still takes time.

Here’s what to expect:

• Immobilization: The shoulder will be immobilized using a sling or other device for 3 to 6 weeks.
• Pain and Inflammation Management: Pain is managed with rest, ice, and NSAIDs. Stronger medications may be prescribed if needed.
• Activity Restrictions: Heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided for approximately 3 months.
• Physical Rehabilitation: The key to a successful recovery is following the physical rehabilitation program designed by Dr. Khaleel. Therapy usually begins 4 to 8 weeks after surgery and focuses on improving shoulder range of motion and strength.