For years, shoulder instability has been treated with open surgery to repair
the torn lip of the glenoid socket, called the "labrum." Many surgeons now
believe that instability is associated with more than just labral tears. Using
minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, your surgeon will have access
to the entire joint. As a result, he or she can examine all potential tears and
will base the method of repair (arthroscopic and sometimes open) on this
thorough inspection. The arthroscopic repair is done using small incisions,
which typically means your recovery is quicker and less painful.
To repair shoulder instability, your surgeon will attach anchors to the bone, then will pass sutures through the tissue. The anchors hold the suture in place. In many cases, these anchors are bioabsorbable and are gradually absorbed in the body over time (within three to five years following the procedure), rather than permanently residing in the bone. The surgeon may tighten the joint capsule using suture or a radiofrequency (RF) or thermal probe that heats the tissue, causing a molecular change in the collagen that allows the tissue itself to shrink.
All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.
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