Bankart Repair / Labrum Repair
What Is a Bankart Lesion?
A Bankart lesion is a tear of the glenoid labrum caused by a shoulder dislocation, typically when the shoulder slips forward (anterior dislocation). Sometimes the tear involves a fragment of bone from the glenoid—this is called a bony Bankart lesion.
When the labrum is torn, the shoulder becomes unstable, and the ball of the joint may slide out more easily, increasing the risk of recurrent dislocations even with minor movements.
Common Causes
Bankart lesions are most often caused by trauma, sports injuries, or repetitive stress. Those at highest risk include young, active individuals, particularly males engaged in contact or overhead sports. Typical causes include:
Car accidents causing blunt trauma to the shoulder
High-impact sports collisions (football, hockey, rugby)
Falls during sports or daily activities
Repetitive overhead movements (swimming, pitching, volleyball)
Naturally loose ligaments or hypermobility
Forceful trauma or physical abuse
Symptoms of a Bankart Lesion
Pain during overhead activities (throwing, reaching, combing hair)
Shoulder instability, feeling of “slipping out”
Reduced range of motion
Clicking, popping, catching, or locking during movement
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-operative management is often recommended for older or less active individuals. Initial treatment includes:
Immobilisation in a sling for 2–3 weeks to allow healing
Structured physical therapy to restore shoulder strength, stability, and motion
Surgical Treatment – Arthroscopic Bankart Repair
For younger or active patients, especially athletes, arthroscopic Bankart repair is preferred to restore shoulder stability. The torn labrum often does not heal on its own, leaving the shoulder prone to repeated dislocations.
How Surgery Works
Performed as a minimally invasive keyhole procedure under general anaesthesia
Reattaches the torn labrum to the glenoid rim
Tightens stretched ligaments and joint capsule
Uses suture anchors to secure the labrum
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Wear a sling for the first few weeks to protect the repair
Early physical therapy begins with gentle motion, progressing to strength and stability exercises
Structured rehabilitation guides return to daily activities and sports
Full recovery and return to contact sports usually takes 4–6 months, depending on progress and adherence to rehab
