Arthroscopic Repair of Posterior Instability

Posterior subluxation is commonly seen in overhead and collision athletes. It can result from a traumatic event disrupting the posterior labrum or repetitive movements that create a posterior capsular pouch. The retroversion of the humerus and glenoid, combined with the natural internal rotation of the arm at rest, can create additional symptoms with routine daily activity. Symptomatic posterior instability in patients that does not respond to conservative management can be repaired with a high degree of successful stabilization using arthroscopic techniques. Labral repair with suture anchors, combined with posteroinferior capsular plication, has returned many athletes to their prior sport. Additional findings, including reverse humeral capsular avulsions, can be repaired at the same time.