A procedure to repair a tear in the labrum of the shoulder, often caused by injury or overuse.
Performed arthroscopically through small incisions, the torn labrum is reattached to the bony rim of the shoulder socket using small suture anchors. The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is usually day surgery.
Assessment includes examination and an MRI, sometimes with contrast dye, to confirm the tear pattern and plan the repair. Standard preoperative steps apply, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A sling protects the repair for the initial weeks. Physiotherapy progresses through structured stages, from gentle passive movement through to strengthening, with the specific pace set by the surgeon based on the tear pattern repaired. Full recovery, particularly for overhead athletes, takes several months to a year.
Rehabilitation follows a staged programme, starting with protected, passive movement, then active movement, then strengthening, and finally sport-specific training for those returning to overhead activity. Following the prescribed pace, rather than rushing back to activity, meaningfully affects the durability of the repair.
Risks include infection, stiffness, and re-tearing of the repaired labrum, particularly if activity is resumed too early. The general risks of anaesthesia also apply.
The aim is a stable, comfortable shoulder with the labrum's normal function restored. Most patients experience good improvement in symptoms, though overhead athletes should be aware that a full return to high-level throwing or overhead sport can take up to a year, given the healing demands placed on the repair.
Labral repair reattaches torn cartilage at the rim of the shoulder socket, restoring stability and relieving pain, particularly for younger or more active patients. Recovery is a staged process, and full return to overhead sport takes patience alongside structured rehabilitation.
