Labral repair, also known as shoulder stabilisation, is a procedure that involves repairing and/or reconstructing a torn labrum.

A labrum is the rim of soft tissue and cartilage around the ball and socket joint that holds it in place and makes it more stable. When it becomes damaged in the shoulder – like in a glenoid labrum tear, patients experience pain and/or the feeling that the shoulder is dislocated and slipping out of place.

Those with labral injuries may not feel pain all the time. It may flare up during exercise or repetitive activity. In general, those with labral tears or injuries feel pain, loss of range of motion, reduced strength, and instability in the shoulder.

Shoulder stabilisation injuries can occur due to chronic shoulder dislocations, repetitive overuse of the shoulder, falls, or accidents. Labral repair procedures are typically performed through arthroscopy, via key-hole or small incisions by a surgeon.

During labral repair surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon will reattach the labrum to the shoulder socket (glenoid) by using suture anchors that are inserted through the tissues and into the bone. It is normally done through an arthroscope, a device hooked up to a video monitor that allows the orthopaedic surgeon to view and perform the procedure through small incisions.

During the procedure, small suture anchors may be placed in the labrum to secure it back to the socket (glenoid) and fix other torn tissues or ligaments.

This procedure stabilises the torn labrum in the shoulder to improve functionality in the joint and eliminate shoulder pain. It is performed under general anaesthesia and patients can usually go home the same day. The results of the procedure will be discussed with you when you wake up or in a follow-up appointment.

• Strengthens and stabilises the shoulder
• Fixes torn labrum in the shoulder
• Resolves pain due to shoulder dislocation
• Improves quality of life
• Minimally invasive

A labral repair / shoulder stabilisation procedure can treat the following conditions:

• Torn or damaged labrum in the shoulder
• Shoulder weakness
• Shoulder pain and aches
• Reduced functionality of the shoulder

The results depend on the complexity and severity of the labral injury. In general, patients are required to wear a sling or brace for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the shoulder to rest and heal.

You may experience pain and swelling for the first few weeks, but it should get better over time. Once the shoulder has healed, you should attend physiotherapy sessions (as prescribed by your orthopedist) to build strength and improve functionality in the shoulder.

Work closely with your orthopaedist and follow their recommendations for exercises and activities for the best results. Your orthopaedist can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Only 1 procedure is typically required for labral repair, however, it depends on the complexity of the injury. Physiotherapy sessions are needed post-operation to regain strength and facilitate a full recovery of the shoulder joint.