Outcomes following open repair of Bankart lesions for recurrent, traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocations

Though open stabilization using the Bankart procedure is still considered the "gold standard," few studies have examined the long-term outcomes. Between 1988 and 2001, 64 patients met inclusion criteria and had an open stabilization performed. Forty-one patients were available for follow-up at an average of 6.5 years. Forty (98%) patients reported having a stable shoulder. Average loss of external rotation was 4° and average Rowe score was 96. This study further supports the trustworthiness of an open anatomic subcapsulolabral reconstruction for recurrent anterior instability and provides another standard from which to compare newer surgical methods.