Long-term outcome of anterior stabilization of the shoulder

This study reports long-term experience with anterior shoulder capsule stabilization by performing the Bankart repair when labral tearing was present with a laterally based T-capsule repair in both primary and revision surgery. Between 1979 and 1983, 34 patients underwent this procedure. They were categorized into a primary group of 22 patients and a revision group of 12 patients who had previous surgery to correct anterior shoulder instability. Patients completed our shoulder questionnaire and a Rowe questionnaire. The mean follow-up was 22 years (range, 11-27 years). No recurrent dislocations developed, 4 patients reported shoulder subluxation, and 11 felt apprehension. No patient had further anterior instability surgery. Two received total shoulder arthroplasty. Postoperative average pain was 1.6, average strength was 9.0, and average satisfaction was 8.3 (1-10 scales). Active elevation averaged 169 degrees, external rotation, 65 degrees; and internal rotation was to T12. There was an average of 10.2 "yes" responses on the Simple Shoulder Test. The total American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score averaged 84.3. Applying the Rowe rating, results were excellent in 16, good in 10, fair in 2, and poor in 4. Ratings were better in the primary surgery group (P = .0535). The use of this procedure for correction of shoulder instability can prevent recurrent dislocation, but some degree of instability remains. Clinically important arthritis seldom develops.