Overview
This arthroscopic procedure is used to repair a detached labrum. The labrum is a thick band of cartilage attached to the glenoid. It lines the shoulder socket and helps keep the ball of the humerus in place.
Arthroscope Inserted
Small incisions are made in the front and back of the shoulder. The surgeon inserts a small video camera (called an arthroscope) to view inside the joint. Small instruments are inserted to perform the procedure.
Area Cleaned
The surgeon cleans the area around the detached labrum, removing any loose particles or rough edges.
Anchors Placed
The surgeon drills a few small holes in the bone near the detached labrum. Anchors are placed in the holes. These anchors are used to hold sutures in place around the glenoid.
Labrum Reattached
The surgeon attaches the sutures to the labrum and pulls the sutures tightly against the anchors, reattaching the labrum to the glenoid.
End of Procedure
The incisions can be closed with small bandages. After surgery, the arm is usually placed in a sling. Physical therapy will be needed to regain full range of motion and increased shoulder strength. Over time, the labrum will naturally reattach itself to the glenoid socket.
