Arthroscopic stabilization of anterior shoulder instability using a single anterior portal.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of the use of a single anterior portal in the arthroscopic surgery treatment of traumatic anterior shoulder instability with those in the literature. The study included 72 patients (60 males, 12 females; mean age: 23.9 years) who underwent surgery using a single arthroscopic anterior portal for the treatment of traumatic anterior shoulder instability between 2002 and 2011. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Rowe and Oxford scales, forward flexion range and external rotation limitation. Redislocation was considered failure. Mean follow-up was 49.3 months. Bankart lesion was determined in 38 patients and Bankart and SLAP lesions in 34. An average of 3.7 (range: 2 to 5) anchors were used. Redislocation was observed in 4 (5.6%) patients in the postoperative period. Postoperative Rowe and Oxford scores were 93.4 and 42.6, respectively. Instability surgery performed using a single arthroscopic anterior portal provided findings comparable with the literature regarding clinical outcomes, postoperative shoulder movements and low recurrence rates, emphasizing the importance of appropriate patient selection rather than the number of the portals. The use of a single portal is less invasive and reduces the surgical period.