Anterior-inferior shoulder instability: treatment based on the Thal method

Chir Organi Mov. 2005 Apr-Jun;90(2):137-43.
[Article in English, Italian]

Abstract

Purpose of this study is to analyze the results of a consecutive series of 139 patients affected with anterior-inferior shoulder instability and treated by arthroscopic capsuloplasty using the Thal method with absorbable and non-absorbable Mitek knotless anchors. Much attention was paid to the preoperative and intraoperative selection of patients, excluding from the arthroscopic procedure those with bony Bankart lesions measuring more than 25%, with an inverted-pear glenoid, with engaged Hill-Sachs lesions and patients with HAGL lesions. Pre- and postoperative clinical evaluation was carried out using the Rowe scale. Scores rose from 45-55 to 96 postoperatively. Intra-articular mobilization of the anchors did not occur and peri-metallic lysis was not manifested. Areas of bone resorption were observed in 7 cases (7/38, 18.4%) with the presence of peri-insertional geodes with biological anchors, but this had no effect on the clinical results.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Arthroscopy / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / classification
  • Joint Instability / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Shoulder Injuries
  • Shoulder Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Shoulder Joint / surgery*
  • Suture Techniques* / instrumentation