Arthroscopic stabilisation for shoulder instability

Since its first description over 30 years ago arthroscopic stabilisation has evolved. With improvements in knowledge, surgical techniques and materials technology, arthroscopic bankart repair has become the most widely used method for treating patients with symptomatic anterior shoulder instability. These procedures are typically performed in a younger, high demand patient population after a primary dislocation or to treat recurrent instability. A thorough clinical evaluation is required in the clinic setting not only to fully understand the injury pattern but also consider patient expectations prior to embarking on surgery. Diagnostic imaging will aid the clinician in determining the soft tissue pathology as well as assessing bone loss, which facilitates surgical decision-making. Selected patients may benefit from adjunctive procedures such as a remplissage for an "engaging" Hill-sachs lesion. This review will focus on the indications, pre-operative considerations, surgical techniques and outcomes of arthroscopic stabilisation.