Arthroscopic double-loaded single-row repair in chronic traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation

We evaluated the clinical results of arthroscopic double-loaded single-row repair for chronic anterior shoulder dislocation.

From January 2007 to December 2008, of the 47 shoulders with chronic anterior shoulder dislocation that consecutively underwent arthroscopic double-loaded single-row repair using bio-absorbable suture anchors containing two non-absorbable braided sutures, 45 shoulders (95.7 %) had successful follow-up for a minimum of 2 years. The mean age of patients was 23.7 years, the mean frequency of dislocations before surgery was 6.8 events, and the mean interval between the initial dislocation and surgery was 47.9 months. Clinical results were evaluated using ASES, Rowe, VAS score, and range of motion before surgery and at the final follow-up.

The mean number of suture anchors was 3.38 (range 2-6) and the mean number of stitches was 6.32 (range 4-10). Four of the 45 cases had recurrence (8.9 %). Of these four, three cases underwent re-operation using the same method and the other one case showed no specific discomfort except a one-time dislocation that underwent conservative treatment. The preoperative and the final follow-up ASES and Rowe scores were statistically significantly improved (P < 0.001, each) and instability VAS score was significantly decreased (P < 0.001). No significant difference in forward flexion, extension, abduction, or internal rotation was found (P > 0.05), but external rotation at the side was significantly decreased (P = 0.001).

Arthroscopic double-loaded single-row repair using suture anchors, containing two sutures in chronic anterior shoulder dislocation, is a reliable procedure with respect to recurrence rate, range of motion, and shoulder function.