Modified Bankart procedure for recurrent anterior dislocation and subluxation of the shoulder in athletes

Thirty-four athletes (34 shoulders) with recurrent anterior glenohumeral in stability were treated with a modified Bankart procedure, using a T-shaped capsular incision in the anterior capsule. The inferior flap was advanced m edially and/or superiorly and rigidly fixed at the point of the Bankart les ion by a small cancellous screw and a spike-washer The superior flap was ad vanced inferioraly and sutured over the inferior flap. Twenty-five athletes (median age: 22) were evaluated over a mean period of follow-up of 65 mont hs. The clinical results were graded according to Rowe, as 22 (88%) excelle nt, 3 (12%) good, and none as fair or poor: The mean postoperative range of movement was 920 of external rotation in 90 degrees of abduction. Elevatio n and internal rotation was symmetrical with the opposite side. Twenty-four patients returned to active sport, 22 at their previous level. This modifi ed Bankart procedure is an effective treatment for athletes with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability.