Surgical procedures
Shoulder stabilizations
Arthroscopic repair of the torn labrum and ligaments to stop a shoulder that keeps slipping or dislocating.
Minimally invasive
Outpatient
Stops dislocations
What is a shoulder stabilization?
A shoulder stabilization repairs the soft-tissue restraints that keep the ball centered in its socket. Most often this means reattaching a torn labrum and ligaments to the rim of the socket, a Bankart repair, done arthroscopically with small anchors.
When repeated dislocations have worn away bone, Dr. Cohn may add a bone procedure to rebuild the socket and provide lasting stability.
What & why
Why it's recommended
Recurrent shoulder dislocations or subluxations
A torn labrum (Bankart lesion) from instability
Young athletes at high risk of re-dislocation
Persistent apprehension that the shoulder will give way
At a glance
Protecting the joint
Stabilizing the shoulder early prevents the repeated dislocations that cause further damage and bone loss over time.
Anesthesia & hospital stay
The day of surgery
The procedure usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half. You'll be fully asleep, with a nerve block for comfort.
General anesthesia
Completely asleep, with a nerve block for lasting comfort.
1–1.5 hours
Time depends on the extent of the repair.
Home same day
Stabilization is an outpatient procedure.
Outpatient setting
Performed at Summit Atlantic Surgery Center or Overlook.
Recovery timeline & milestones
What recovery looks like
Recovery balances protecting the repair with gradually restoring motion and control.
Protect
A sling protects the repair while the labrum heals to the rim.
Restore motion
Therapy gradually returns full range of motion.
Strengthen
Progressive strengthening rebuilds the stabilizing muscles.
Return to sport
A staged return to contact and overhead sport once control returns.
Risks & benefits
Weighing the procedure
- Reliably stops recurrent dislocations
- Minimally invasive, arthroscopic repair
- Restores confidence and a stable shoulder
- Protects the joint from further damage
- Recurrence, higher when significant bone is lost
- Some loss of extreme end-range motion
- Stiffness during recovery
- Infection or nerve irritation, uncommon
Treats these conditions
Stabilization is the primary surgical treatment for shoulder instability.
FAQ
Common questions
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Stabilization is highly effective at preventing further dislocations. Recurrence is more likely when a lot of bone has been lost, which may call for an added bone procedure.
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Return to contact and overhead sport is staged, typically over four to six months, once motion, strength, and control have returned.
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Yes, most stabilizations are performed arthroscopically through small incisions, though significant bone loss may require an open bone procedure.
Related conditions