OBJECTIVETo evaluate retrospectively the results of arthroscopic Bankart repair using suture anchors for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation with a minimum 1-year follow-up and to assess risk factors for recurrence.

METHODSFrom March 2002 to March 2010, 259 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with suture anchors. And 188 patients (50 athletes, 138 nonathletes) were available for follow-up. The mean age at the time of surgery was 25.3 years (range, 13 - 58 years). The mean follow-up was 38.6 months (range, 12 - 110 months). All of the 188 patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) shoulder score and Rowe score system. The rate of recurrent instability, range of motion, and risk factors for postoperative recurrence were evaluated. The ASES score was 72.6 preoperatively, and Rowe score was 33.4.

RESULTSThe ASES scores improved significantly to 91.9 postoperatively (P < 0.001). The Rowe scores improved to 81.9 postoperatively (P < 0.001). And 152 patients were greatly satisfied with the results, 16 satisfied and 20 unsatisfied. The satisfactory rate was 89.4%. 24 patients (12.8%) suffered a recurrence after surgery, 14 athletes and 10 nonathletes. The recurrence rates were 28.0% in the athlete group and 7.2% in the nonathlete group. On average there was no significant loss of external rotation postoperatively (average, 75.2° preoperatively and 67.2° postoperatively). Patients under age 20, and athlete patients were associated with recurrence (P < 0.05). Other factors including length of time until surgery, type of anchors, number of anchors, presence of bony Bankart lesion, presence of a superior labrum, anterior and posterior tear, presence of posterior or inferior labrum lesion, presence of rotator cuff tear, ligamentous laxity and rotator interval closure did not influence the recurrence rate (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONSArthroscopic Bankart repair is a good option for the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. Identification of risk factors for recurrence allows for consideration of open stabilization. In the series, patients under age 20 and athlete patients are the most important risk factors for recurrence.