This article provides an in-depth look at Bankart Repair, a surgical procedure used to address recurrent shoulder dislocations, particularly in young athletes. Understanding this procedure is crucial for maintaining shoulder stability and preventing further injury.
What is Bankart Surgery?
Bankart repair surgery is a procedure that reattaches and tightens the torn labrum — the cartilage ring that stabilises the shoulder joint — to prevent future dislocations. It focuses on the repair of the Bankart lesion, a tear of the front part of the labrum caused by trauma or forceful shoulder dislocation.
The shoulder, unlike the hip joint, has a larger ball and a smaller socket, which makes it inherently more prone to dislocations. Bankart Repair is most commonly performed in younger patients aged roughly 15 to 25, in whom the labrum often attaches weakly to the bone and recurrent dislocations are common.
At Minomax Orthopaedics, Bankart Repair is performed arthroscopically — a minimally invasive technique that uses small portals and an arthroscopic camera, preserving shoulder mobility and shortening recovery. The traditional open Bankart approach — a single large incision — is reserved for select complex cases, when additional injuries to the shoulder need to be addressed at the same time.
Benefits of Bankart Repair Surgery
- Prevents recurrent shoulder dislocations and restores joint stability.
- Many patients report markedly decreased pain and discomfort after surgery, as the procedure repairs the damaged labrum and alleviates the chronic pain associated with instability.
- Improved range of motion. Post-surgery rehabilitation restores the shoulder’s natural movement, letting you move your arm freely without discomfort.
- Minimises the risk of further damage to the shoulder joint.
- Enables athletes to return to their sports without the fear of dislocation.
- Performed arthroscopically, reducing recovery time and scarring compared with open surgery.
- According to clinical studies, Bankart Repair has a high success rate, with most patients enjoying long-term shoulder stability and function.
Symptoms and Signs
- Frequent shoulder dislocations during activities, especially overhead movements.
- Pain and swelling in the shoulder area.
- Feeling of instability or looseness in the shoulder joint.
- Difficulty performing overhead activities.
- Occasional stiffness, which usually improves with structured rehabilitation.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Young age (15–25 years) — this group has the highest risk of recurrent dislocations.
- Weak attachment of the labrum to the bone in younger individuals.
- Engagement in sports or activities involving overhead movements.
- Previous shoulder injuries or dislocations.
How is Bankart Repair Surgery Performed?
The procedure is performed arthroscopically as a day-care or short-stay surgery:
- Depending on the case, the anaesthesiologist administers general or regional anaesthesia so the patient is comfortable and feels nothing during surgery.
- Three small incisions (portals) are made around the shoulder to insert the arthroscopic camera and instruments.
- The torn labrum is identified and reattached to the glenoid bone using biodegradable screws, restoring the natural anchor of the joint.
- The loose joint capsule is tightened to reduce joint volume and increase stability.
- Any associated Hill-Sachs lesions (impaction damage on the back of the humeral head) are addressed to prevent future dislocations.
- Once the repair is complete, the small portals are closed with sutures or steri-strips, and the patient is moved to recovery for monitoring.
Recovery and What to Expect
Post-surgery, the shoulder is immobilised in a sling for approximately six weeks. Gentle exercises begin almost immediately to prevent stiffness — certain movements are avoided in the early phase to protect the repair.
Most patients stay in hospital for 1–2 days. The medical team helps with pain management and starts the initial rehabilitation programme:
- Early recovery (2–6 weeks): the surgeon places you on a physical therapy programme from the second week to allow gentle movement and prevent stiffness. Avoid heavy lifting.
- Mid recovery (6–12 weeks): active rehabilitation with strengthening exercises introduced by the physiotherapist. High-impact shoulder activities are still avoided.
- Full recovery and return to sport: typically several months — with most patients resuming all normal activities by around the 6-month mark with proper rehabilitation.
Keep visiting your surgeon for follow-up until they suggest otherwise.
Cost of Bankart Repair Surgery in Delhi
Here’s a general breakdown of the cost of Bankart repair surgery in Delhi:
- Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: Minimum ₹80,000; Average ₹1,50,000; Maximum ₹2,20,000
- Labrum / Bankart Repair: Minimum ₹80,000; Average ₹1,20,000; Maximum ₹1,80,000
Factors that influence the final cost include:
- Type of Surgery: Arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgeries cost more than traditional open surgery.
- Hospital Type and Facilities: Private hospitals typically charge more than government hospitals.
- Expertise of the Surgeon: A highly qualified orthopaedic or shoulder specialist commands a higher fee.
- Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans add to the overall cost.
- Surgical Method: Advanced techniques with the latest equipment carry a premium.
Why Choose Dr. Ashwani Maichand for Bankart Repair Surgery?
Recognised among the best surgeons in Delhi, Dr. Ashwani Maichand brings decades of global surgical experience, including advanced training in injuries related to the shoulder and shoulder reconstruction. His expertise in arthroscopic shoulder surgery — alongside related shoulder procedures like rotator cuff repair — offers long-term relief from all kinds of shoulder injuries.
Dr. Maichand creates personalised care plans for each patient’s shoulder dislocation surgery in Delhi. His comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery protocols ensure you get the best treatment and maintain its results in the long term. With a patient-centric approach and a high success rate, Dr. Ashwani Maichand continues to provide the best treatment and care to all his patients.
FAQs
Suffering from recurrent shoulder dislocations? Contact Dr. Ashwani Maichand to learn whether Bankart repair surgery is right for you.
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