Bankart Repair

An Overview of Bankart Repair

A Bankart repair, also known as capsulolabral reconstruction surgery, is the most common surgery performed on patients with chronic instability. This procedure can be performed by Dr. Peter Millett as an open procedure or by using an arthroscopic technique. If the problem is in fact due to the inferior shoulder ligament tearing away from the labrum within the shoulder, then a Bankart repair can be performed to fix this ligament. Arthroscopically, the torn labrum is repaired and the stretched-out anterior shoulder capsule is made to lie on top to make it smaller. This procedure is successful approximately 95% of the time in eliminating recurrent dislocations.

A capsulolabral reconstruction is a fairly new technique that has been developed using a transplanted tendon (from another part of the body or from a cadaver) to make new ligaments and cartilage, which then act to prevent dislocation and stabilize the chronically unstable shoulder. This is a salvage procedure that serves as a promising alternative to shoulder fusion for patients with severe shoulder instability.

Bankart Images

(Click to Enlarge) Bankart lesion

(Click to Enlarge) Bankart Repair

Top left arthroscopic image shows as Bankart lesion (tearing of the anteroinferior labrum). The top right arthroscopic image shows the tear being reduced with the first suture anchor. The bottom image shows the final repair of the Bankart lesion.

After Capsulolabral Reconstruction Surgery

Following either arthroscopic or open operative repair and stabilization, the patient will wear a sling for about 6 weeks so that the repaired labrum can continue to heal to the glenoid. Sutures will assist in this healing process. The following guidelines are recommended:

Apply ice to the incision site to help combat pain; protect your skin with a light cloth to avoid burning the skin.
Wear your sling or brace until Dr. Millett specifies that you can remove it. You may take off the sling to dress or bathe, but be careful not to move your arm.
Keep your arm immobile.
For pain management, Dr. Millett can prescribe a pain medication. Please take as prescribed and follow the precautions listed for the drug. You also may take over-the-counter medicines for pain.
Do not remove your sutures—they will disintegrate by themselves. Follow the incision site care instructions that are given to you after your surgery.
If excessive pain, swelling, nausea, fever, numbness or trouble breathing takes place, please call our office immediately.
Physical therapy, as prescribed by Dr. Millett, should begin using exercises that stress range of motion for about 8 weeks after surgery, or until full strength is regained.
Overhead sports may resume about 3 months following surgery.
Patient can resume contact sports after 6 months.

Are you a candidate for Bankart repair?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

To learn more about the Bankart repair procedure, or to discuss capsulolabral reconstruction surgery in greater detail, please contact the office of Dr. Peter Millett.

What Treatment Options Exist for Shoulder Instability?

Does My Son Need Surgery for a Dislocated Shoulder?

I Dislocated my Shoulder and have Ongoing Shoulder Instability. Why?

Can You Explain What a Bankart Repair is?

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

An Overview of Bankart Repair

Bankart Images

After Capsulolabral Reconstruction Surgery

Are you a candidate for Bankart repair?

Related Articles

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

Submit your review
Name:
Email:
Website:
Review Title:
Rating:	1 2 3 4 5
Review:

Check this box to confirm you are human.
Submit Cancel