Rotator cuff and Bankart repairs
Rotator cuff and Bankart repairs are surgical procedures aimed at treating specific shoulder injuries and conditions that affect stability and movement.
Causes:
- Rotator Cuff Tears: These tears can occur due to repetitive overhead motions, lifting heavy objects, or acute injuries. They weaken the shoulder and can lead to pain, weakness, and restricted movement.
- Bankart Lesions: These are injuries to the labrum, the cartilage ring around the shoulder socket. They often result from shoulder dislocations or repetitive stress, causing instability and discomfort.
Treatment: Rotator cuff and Bankart repairs are crucial for restoring shoulder stability and function. The procedures typically involve:
Diagnostic Evaluation: Detailed assessment through imaging studies like MRI and physical examination to pinpoint the extent and location of the injury.
Surgical Intervention: Depending on the severity, repairs are often performed arthroscopically. This minimally invasive approach uses small incisions and specialized tools equipped with a camera for precise visualization. For rotator cuff tears, the torn tendon is reattached to the bone using sutures or anchors. In Bankart repairs, the torn labrum is repaired to stabilize the shoulder joint.
Rehabilitation: Post-surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring strength, flexibility, and function to the shoulder. Physical therapy exercises are tailored to gradually increase shoulder mobility, strengthen the muscles around the joint, and prevent stiffness.
These surgeries aim to relieve pain, improve shoulder stability, and enhance the range of motion. They are essential for athletes, workers in physically demanding jobs, and individuals with chronic shoulder issues, offering a pathway to restored mobility and improved quality of life.
