An Arthroscopic Technique for Addressing Cartilage Defects in the Glenoid Using Bone Marrow Aspiration Concentrate After Failed Bankart Repair.

Abstract

Glenoid articular cartilage lesions are a significant cause of persistent shoulder pain, particularly following trauma or previous surgical interventions, such as failed Bankart repairs. Current surgical approaches for addressing cartilage damage in the glenohumeral joint include microfracture, osteochondral autograft transfer, osteochondral allograft transplantation, and autologous chondrocyte implantation. However, the use of bone marrow aspiration concentrate (BMAC), which is rich in mesenchymal stem cells, has emerged as a promising minimally invasive single-step procedure that promotes cartilage regeneration. This study presents an arthroscopic technique for addressing cartilage defects in the glenoid using BMAC after failed Bankart repair in a patient. Although the evidence base for BMAC in glenoid defects is limited, early clinical results suggest effective cartilage healing, few complications, and satisfactory patient outcomes. This technique appears to be safe and offers the benefit of being a single-step process that utilizes autologous bone marrow mesenchymal cells to facilitate cartilage regeneration. Further research is needed to establish the long-term efficacy of this approach for treating glenoid cartilage lesions.