The HAGL lesion: an arthroscopic technique for repair of humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligaments.

Abstract

Glenoid avulsion of the capsulolabral complex and associated capsular laxity are well-described results of traumatic anterior dislocation. A less common consequence of traumatic anterior instability is the humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligaments (HAGL) lesion. An understanding of the arthroscopic pathoanatomy of the HAGL lesion will assist the surgeon in recognizing this uncommon entity. We describe a suture anchor technique for arthroscopic repair of HAGL lesions that anatomically reapproximates the torn edge of the glenohumeral ligament complex to its humeral head insertion. The technique is technically straightforward and does not require special equipment beyond that typical for arthroscopic labral repairs.