Arthroscopic Stabilization of Posterior Shoulder Instability Is Successful in American Football Players

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate subjective and objective clinical outcomes of arthroscopic posterior capsulolabral repair for the treatment of symptomatic unidirectional posterior shoulder instability in American football players.

Methods: Fifty-six consecutive American football players with unidirectional posterior shoulder instability underwent an arthroscopic posterior capsulolabral repair with or without suture anchors. Patients were evaluated, with return to play as the primary outcome measure supplemented with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scoring system. Stability, range of motion, strength, pain, and function were also assessed with subjective scales.

Results: At a mean follow-up of 44.7 months postoperatively, 93% returned to sport and 79% returned to sport at the same level. Significant improvements (P < .01) were seen between preoperative and postoperative evaluations in ASES score and subjective scores of stability, range of motion, strength, pain, and function. Excellent or good results (ASES score > 60; stability < 6) were achieved in 96.5% of athletes, and 96% were satisfied with their operations.

Conclusions: Arthroscopic capsulolabral repair for unidirectional posterior shoulder instability is effective in American football players because it improves stability, pain, and joint function, which optimizes the likelihood of successful return to play.

Level of evidence: Case series; Level of evidence, IV.