Arthroscopic fixation of superior labral lesions using a biodegradable implant: a preliminary report

Twenty-two patients were treated for symptomatic lesions of the superior glenoid labrum in association with instability of the tendinous insertion of the long head of the biceps brachii. A biodegradable implant was used to fix the labrum to the bony glenoid using an arthroscopic technique. At 2-year average follow-up, satisfactory results were obtained in 86% of the patients. Two patients, both of whom had undergone concomitant subacromial decompression, continued to complain of pain after the procedure; 3 patients had restricted motion postoperatively, and 1 required manipulation under anesthesia. Twelve of 13 overhead athletes were able to return to full premorbid function. Arthroscopic fixation of unstable lesions of the superior labrum led to a resolution of symptoms in the majority of patients. There were no complications related to the use of the biodegradable implant.