A surgeon discussing Labral Repair (Shoulder) options with a patient in Florida
Treatment/Treatment Details

Labral Repair (Shoulder)

Arthroscopic labral repair reattaches torn labral tissue to restore shoulder stability and prevent recurrent dislocations.

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Restoring Shoulder Stability

Labral Repair (Shoulder) is an arthroscopic procedure that reattaches torn labral tissue to the glenoid socket using suture anchors. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that deepens the socket and provides stability to the shoulder joint. Labral tears can occur from traumatic dislocations (Bankart lesions), repetitive overhead activities (SLAP tears), or shoulder instability. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our shoulder specialists use advanced arthroscopic techniques to repair the labrum and restore shoulder stability.

This minimally invasive procedure is highly effective for treating shoulder instability and preventing recurrent dislocations. The arthroscopic approach allows for precise repair with minimal tissue disruption, leading to faster recovery compared to open surgery. Our surgeons specialize in repairing various types of labral tears including SLAP tears, Bankart lesions, and posterior labral tears.

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Who Is a Candidate?

  • Patients with shoulder instability and labral tears confirmed by MRI
  • Individuals with recurrent shoulder dislocations or subluxations
  • Athletes with SLAP tears causing pain and instability
  • Those with Bankart lesions from previous dislocations
  • Patients who have failed conservative treatment including physical therapy
  • Active individuals seeking to return to sports or overhead activities

What Conditions does Labral Repair (Shoulder) Help Ease?

This procedure may help with:

Rotator Cuff TearLabral TearsShoulder ArthritisShoulder TendonitisShoulder PainShoulder Impingement
Arthroscopic view of shoulder labral repair with suture anchors

The Arthroscopic Repair Technique

  1. Following consultation and diagnostic imaging (MRI arthrogram), the procedure is performed arthroscopically
  2. Small portals are created for the camera and instruments
  3. The torn labrum is identified and prepared
  4. Suture anchors are placed into the glenoid bone
  5. The sutures are passed through the labral tissue and tied down, reattaching it to the bone
  6. The repair is tested for stability
  7. The portals are closed, and the shoulder is placed in a sling

Benefits of Labral Repair (Shoulder)

  • Restores shoulder stability and prevents recurrent dislocations
  • Minimally invasive arthroscopic technique with faster recovery
  • Allows return to sports and overhead activities
  • Preserves shoulder anatomy and function
  • High success rate for preventing recurrent instability

Recovery and Return to Activity

Recovery Timeline: 4-6 Months for Full Return to Sports

Recovery from labral repair requires protection of the repair while it heals. A sling is worn for 4-6 weeks. Physical Therapy begins with passive motion and progresses to active motion and strengthening. Return to sports typically occurs at 4-6 months once strength and stability milestones are met. The arthroscopic approach allows for faster recovery compared to open surgery, with most patients experiencing significant improvement within the first few months.

Related Shoulder Treatments

Explore other shoulder treatment options:

Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement TreatmentRotator Cuff Repair SurgeryShoulder ArthroscopyTotal Shoulder ReplacementReverse Shoulder ReplacementBiceps TenodesisShoulder Instability SurgeryAcromioplasty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is shoulder labral repair surgery?

Shoulder labral repair is an arthroscopic procedure reattaching a torn labrum to the glenoid rim using suture anchors. It treats Bankart lesions (anterior-inferior tears from dislocation) and SLAP tears (superior labrum anterior-posterior tears from overhead sports).

Who is a candidate for shoulder labral repair?

Candidates include patients with symptomatic labral tears causing instability, pain, or mechanical symptoms that failed conservative treatment. Bankart repairs prevent recurrent dislocations. SLAP repairs treat overhead athletes with pain and clicking from superior labral tears.

What is the recovery time for labral repair?

Recovery varies by tear location. Bankart repair: 4-6 months for return to sports. SLAP repair: 6-9 months due to biceps tendon involvement. Patients wear a sling for 4-6 weeks. Physical therapy progresses from motion to strengthening.

What is the success rate of shoulder labral repair?

Success rates are high for appropriate indications. Bankart repair: 85-95% stability restoration. SLAP repair outcomes are more variable (70-80% good results) depending on patient age, sport, and tear pattern. Young contact athletes have higher re-injury risk.

What are the complications of labral repair surgery?

Complications include recurrent instability (5-15%), stiffness, incomplete pain relief, nerve injury (axillary nerve), infection, and anchor-related issues. SLAP repairs have higher dissatisfaction rates in overhead athletes, with some requiring biceps tenodesis revision.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Shoulder instability or recurrent dislocations? Our shoulder specialists provide comprehensive evaluation to determine if labral repair is right for you. Book an appointment with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today.

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer labral repair (shoulder) evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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