ARTHROSCOPIC CAPSULAR PLICATION FOR TRAUMATIC INSTABILITY IN PATIENTS WITH LIGAMENTOUS LAXITY

Abstract

We review our results of arthroscopic capsular plication in patients with ligamentous laxity that had developed symptoms of instability after a traumatic event. Between 2004 and 2005, 115 patients with traumatic injury to their shoulder underwent arthroscopic stabilization and repair of their shoulder. Of these, twelve patients had ligamentous laxity and had their capsule plicated as a means to stabilize their shoulder. All had failed three months of biofeedback physiotherapy. The mean age of the patients was 29 years (range 17 to 46). The average time interval between date of injury and surgery was 21 months. They were reviewed retrospectively with a minimum follow up of 2 yeats. The functional outcome was assessed by Constant scoring system and Rowe score. At arthroscopy, capsular plication with a south to north direction would be fashioned with #1 PDS sutures. In multidirectional instability, the inferior and posterior capsule would be plicated as well. If the labrum was torn, this and the capsule would be repaired together. The repair was reinforced with rotator interval closure. Postoperatively the arm was rested in sling for four weeks followed by gradual mobilization. At a minimum follow up of two years, all twelve shoulders became stable. There were 8 excellent, 3 good and one fair result as graded by modified Rowe score. Re-arthroscopy in the patient with fair result showed good capsular repair and presence of scar tissue in the subacromial space. All patients rated their shoulder as normal. Ten patients returned to their preinjury level of competitive sport. Two patients returned to sport but at a lower level voluntarily. Arthroscopic capsular plication appears to be a safe and reliable technique in stabilizing shoulders in patients with ligamentous laxity. This form of repair should be offered to this group of patients if treatment with biofeedback physiotherapy fails.