Arthroscopic Bankart reconstruction with a bioabsorbable anchor

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Anterior shoulder instability is frequently treated with arthroscopic Bankart reconstruction.
• Biodegradable suture anchors offer a potential alternative to permanent fixation devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of poly-L-lactic acid biodegradable suture anchors in arthroscopic Bankart reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• A prospective multicenter study included 57 patients with unidirectional anterior instability.
• Patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart reconstruction using the biodegradable suture anchors.
• Follow-up averaged 24 months, assessing clinical outcomes, range of motion, and radiographic changes.

Main Results:

• Postoperative apprehension tests were negative in 55/57 patients.
• Mean shoulder range of motion improved from 155 to 175 degrees.
• Four patients experienced postoperative instability (2 dislocations, 2 subluxations).
• No lytic or resorptive bone changes were observed around the anchors.
• Mean postoperative Rowe score was 93.

Conclusions:

• Poly-L-lactic acid biodegradable suture anchors are effective for arthroscopic Bankart reconstruction.
• The anchors demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no material-related adverse events.
• This biodegradable option provides good clinical outcomes for anterior shoulder instability.