A Bankart injury is a specific type of shoulder injury that affects the stability of the shoulder joint. It occurs when the Bankart ligament, a vital component for shoulder stability, gets torn or damaged. This ligament plays a crucial role in ensuring that the arm remains securely in the shoulder socket during various arm movements, such as throwing, lifting, or reaching overhead. When the Bankart ligament is compromised, it can lead to recurring instances of shoulder dislocation or subluxation, where the shoulder partially comes out of its socket. This condition often causes significant pain, weakness, and a feeling of instability in the affected shoulder.
Bankart injuries are commonly associated with individuals who engage in activities that exert repetitive stress on the shoulder joint. Athletes like baseball pitchers, swimmers, and weightlifters, who regularly perform overhead motions, are particularly prone to developing these injuries over time. The repetitive forces and movements associated with these sports gradually weaken or damage the Bankart ligament, contributing to shoulder instability. Additionally, traumatic incidents like falls or direct impacts to the shoulder can also result in Bankart injuries, causing sudden ligament tears and further compromising shoulder function. As such, Bankart injuries can have a significant impact on an individual's ability to perform daily activities and may necessitate medical evaluation and treatment to restore shoulder stability and alleviate discomfort.
The procedure generally takes about an hour. You may receive general anesthesia to induce sleep or regional anesthesia to numb the legs. If you opt for regional anesthesia, you'll also get medication to relax. Bankart surgery often employs arthroscopic techniques, involving small incisions around the shoulder, camera, and tiny tools, reducing scarring compared to open surgery. The first step aligns the graft, followed by drilling tunnels in the bones above and below the shoulder. Screws secure the graft, acting as a scaffold for a new ligament to grow on during healing, which can take several months to fully develop.
Preparing for Bankart surgery involves several important steps for a smooth recovery. These include medication discussions with your doctor, arranging transportation, adhering to eating and drinking instructions, quitting smoking, attending pre-operative appointments, asking questions, readying your home, and ensuring assistance with daily tasks. Complying with these recommendations ensures effective surgery preparation and enhances the likelihood of a successful outcome.
After Bankart surgery, you'll receive wound dressing change instructions before leaving the hospital. Your knee should be elevated on pillows, ice applied, wrapped in a bandage, and crutches used to reduce pressure. Pain relief medication options include over-the-counter drugs (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen) or prescription medications like meloxicam or gabapentin. Progressive physical therapy will help strengthen muscles and ligaments during your recovery. Most individuals can return to regular activities in approximately 9 months, while athletes may require up to 12 months to resume playing.