1998 Volume 22 Issue 3 Pages 529-532
In this study, we investigated the indication for and effectiveness of a capsulorabral reconstruction for a recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder after a Boytchev procedure.
Three cases (3men) were re-operated on with capsulolabral r econstruction using suture anchors.
Their age at surgery ranged from 17 to 27 years (average,21). All the patients were diagnosed as traumatic anterior dislocation during sports activity. The period from the initial dislocation to the first operation (Boytchev procedure) ranged from 1 to 2 years. The interval from the first operation to the reoperation (modified anterior capsulolabral reconstruction using suture anchors) ranged 2 to 9 (average 5.3) years. The follow-up period ranged from 3y4m to 3y9m. The results were assessed using Rowe's scoring system (1987).
Rowe's scores were 97 (excellent),97 (excellent) and 78 (good) at the final examination. Neither anterior nor inferior instabilities were observed in case 1, but psychological anxiety made him abandon playing sports. In case 2 which was categorized as excellent at the final examination, an inferior instability was noted, but he showed no disability. He returned to sports on a recreational level. Subluxation was encountered once in case 3. Anterior and inferior instabilities were noted. General joint laxity was revealed (3/5; thumb, elbow and knee) in this case.
A capsulolabral reconstruction was indicated for in cases with Bankart lesion, even if they had previously been operated on with a muscle transfer procedure (such as Boytchev procedure). But, when the capsulorraphy is done, it is important that the inferior capsule should be elevated sufficiently in cases with inferior instability and general joint laxity.
