Labrum Repair

Labral tears can result from various factors, including acute sports injuries like a fall on an outstretched arm, a direct blow to the shoulder, a sudden jerk when lifting a heavy object, or a violent overhead reach when trying to stop a fall or slide. Athletes involved in activities like baseball, tennis, or weightlifting that involve repetitive motions can also experience a labral tear. Labral tears can cause pain, mechanical symptoms and/or instability. If patients continue to have these symptoms despite nonoperative care (rotator cuff and scapulothoracic strengthening), arthroscopic repair may be warranted.

• Persistent and deep shoulder pain is a hallmark of a labral tear
• A catching or popping sensation
• Weakness that impacts the ability to perform challenging tasks that require shoulder strength and stability
• Decrease performance especially for athletes involves with throwing or overhead motions like swimming
• Instability that feels like the shoulder is loose or slipping out of place
• Pain at night and radiating pain

Most labral repairs are performed with minimally invasive arthroscopy in an outpatient setting. In arthroscopic surgery, small incisions are made around the shoulder joint to access the damaged labrum. These incisions are considerably smaller than those used in open surgery, resulting in less tissue disruption and a quicker recovery.

A thin, flexible tube with a camera (arthroscope) is inserted through one of the incisions. This allows the surgeon to visualize the inside of the shoulder joint on a monitor, providing a clear view of the labral tear.

Specialized surgical instruments are inserted through additional small incisions and cannulas to repair the labral tear. Depending on the extent of the damage, various techniques may be used, such as sutures or anchors to reattach the torn labrum to the bone. After the repair is complete, the incisions are closed using sutures.

Post-surgery, a sling in typically worn for 4-6 weeks and patients will undergo a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy exercises to regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. The specific rehabilitation plan may vary based on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s recommendations.

It’s important to note that the success of shoulder labrum repair depends on several factors, including the type and extent of the labral tear, the patient’s overall health, and adherence to the rehabilitation program. The goal of the surgery is to alleviate pain, improve shoulder function, and prevent further damage to the labrum.

Patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, attend follow-up appointments, and actively participate in rehabilitation to optimize their recovery and achieve the best possible outcome. Additionally, individuals considering this procedure should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if shoulder labrum repair is the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.