Shoulder injuries, particularly those related to instability, can significantly impact daily life and limit mobility. Bankart surgery is a common procedure aimed at stabilizing the shoulder joint, providing relief and restoring functionality. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the key aspects of Bankart surgery in simple English, covering what it is, why it's necessary, the procedure itself, recovery, and what to expect afterward.

• Bankart Lesion: A tear in the labrum (a ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket) caused by dislocation.
• Labrum: The cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket, providing stability to the joint.
• Shoulder Instability: The condition where the shoulder joint is prone to dislocation or subluxation.
• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure using a small camera (arthroscope) to visualize and treat issues inside a joint.

The Bankart Surgery Procedure

• Anesthesia: Before the surgery, the patient is put under anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
• Incisions: Small incisions, about the size of a buttonhole, are made around the shoulder.
• Arthroscopy: An arthroscope, a tiny camera, is inserted through one of the incisions. It allows the surgeon to see inside the shoulder joint on a monitor.
• Assessment: The surgeon examines the shoulder joint for any damage, particularly focusing on the labrum and surrounding structures.
• Repair: If a Bankart lesion is present, the surgeon uses small instruments to repair the torn labrum. This may involve reattaching the labrum to the socket using anchors and sutures.
• Closure: After the repair, the incisions are closed with stitches, and a sterile dressing is applied.

• Pain Management: Pain is managed with prescribed medications.
• Immobilization: A sling is often worn to immobilize the shoulder and promote healing.

• Passive Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle exercises to regain shoulder mobility are introduced.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation may include supervised physical therapy sessions.

• Active Range of Motion Exercises: Gradual progression to active movement exercises.
• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the shoulder muscles becomes a focus.

• Functional Activities: Gradual return to daily activities and specific exercises to restore function.
• Sport-Specific Training: For individuals involved in sports, sport-specific training may begin.

• Follow Doctor's Advice: Adhere to the prescribed rehabilitation plan and attend follow-up appointments.
• Avoid Overexertion: Gradual progression is essential; avoid overusing the shoulder too soon.
• Communication: Inform the healthcare team of any concerns or changes in symptoms.
• Patience: Recovery takes time; patience is crucial for a successful outcome.

• Improved Stability: The primary goal of Bankart surgery is to enhance shoulder stability, reducing the risk of dislocations.
• Reduced Pain: Repairing the Bankart lesion and stabilizing the joint often leads to a significant reduction in pain.
• Enhanced Functionality: As the shoulder heals and rehabilitation progresses, individuals can expect improved range of motion and functionality.
• Return to Activities: Depending on the individual and the nature of their activities, a gradual return to sports and other physical activities can be expected after completing the rehabilitation process.