Background: The purpose of this prospective clinical trial was to report about results of primary or early secondary arthroscopic stabilization after first traumatic anterior dislocation of the shoulder.
Patients and methods: Within 2 weeks or in the 7th to 12th week post trauma, 51 subjects between 16 and 30 years received arthroscopic stabilization and rehabilitation. The patients were followed-up 6 months and 2 years post operation and assessed with the Rowe and the Constant scores.
Results: At a mean follow-up of 27.9+/-4.3 months all patients returned to work in their profession. Of the patients, 79.2% were satisfied with the result of the operation; 91.7% returned to their sports. During the follow-up period five patients (10.4%) suffered redislocation. There was no difference in the result comparing the time of operation. The Rowe and Constant scores showed excellent results.
Conclusions: Arthroscopic stabilization after first traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation of the young patient is an appropriate approach and regardless of whether it is performed as a primary or early secondary operation it significantly lowers the redislocation rate. The method leads to quick reintegration into professional life and sports activities.