[Arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Minimally invasive technique have recently gained importance because of their apparent advantages. One of them is arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder used for treatment of traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation with subsequent instability. In this study we describe the results of and experience with this technique.

MATERIAL: Conventional treatment of glenohumeral dislocation, which includes reduction and subsequent immobilization for 4 weeks, has a high risk of recurrent dislocation particularly in young patients.Therefore surgical treatment lowering this risk is preferred. Arthroscopic stabilization is effective in patients with post-traumatic anterior instability of the glenohumeral joint. This technique involves fixation of the torn glenoid labrum and reduction of the anterior articular space. The evaluation of 77 patients treated by this method is presented here.

METHODS: The arthroscopic method of labrum fixation with Mitek anchors (Mitek, Norwood, Mass., USA) was used. Arthroscopic stabilization is carried out in a lateral recumbent position with an extension device, using two standard arthroscopic ports. After preparation of the glenoid rim, the torn labrum is sutured to GII anchors inserted in pre-drilled tunnels in the edge of the glenoid. Insertion of three anchors appears optimal, because the use of fewer anchors may result in failure and repeat dislocation. The anchors have to be inserted in a manner ensuring fixation of maximum of the torn labrum.

RESULTS: A total of 90 shoulder joints were treated by arthroscopic stabilization and 77 patients were followed up. Excellent results were achieved in 58 patients (75.4 %). Good results in 14 joints (18.2 %) and poor in 4 patients (5.2 %). Three repeat dislocations were recorded and one patient experienced restriction of motion in the treated shoulder.

DISCUSSION: The three repeat dislocations (3.9 %) correlate with the results reported in the recent relevant literature.

CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic shoulder joint stabilization is a reliable method. It is a surgical procedure suitable for treatment of shoulder instability and is also indicated in patients with acute traumatic dislocation, because it significantly reduces the risk of recurrent dislocation that is high in conventional treatment. In the hands of an experienced surgeon this technique is fast and simple and, because of its minimal invasiveness, convenient for the patient. In comparison with open stabilization techniques, arthroscopy is associated with higher failure, but a classical open procedure can still be used for treatment of recurrent dislocations.