The Rationale for an Arthroscopic Approach to Shoulder Stabilization

The gold standard of treatment for glenohumeral instability has traditionally been viewed as open shoulder stabilization. With the increased awareness of complex instability patterns and the ability to preoperatively detect concomitant pathology with advanced imaging modalities, an evidence-based shift to an all-arthroscopic approach to shoulder stabilization surgery is occurring. Current data suggest that patients who meet eligibility criteria for arthroscopic stabilization (those without significant bony lesions or significant deformity) can expect equivalent rates of recurrence, better functional outcomes, and less morbidity. Modern arthroscopic techniques using suture anchors and capsular plication have resulted in a significant improvement over previous reports in the orthopaedic literature. An argument is put forth on the benefits of an all-arthroscopic approach to shoulder stabilization in athletes and nonathletes alike based on a review of the current orthopaedic literature comparing the evolved arthroscopic technique with more traditional open methods.