Bankart repair fixes the torn front rim of the shoulder socket after the shoulder has dislocated. Dr. Plancher performs it for people whose shoulder keeps slipping out of place. It restores the anchor that holds the shoulder stable, followed by months of rehabilitation.
Kevin Plancher performs bankart repair (stabilization) in New York when it is the right step, and reviews every alternative with you first.
What is a Bankart repair, and who is it for?
When the shoulder dislocates forward, it often tears the front-lower part of the labrum, called a Bankart tear, which is the anchor that helps hold the shoulder in the socket.
Once that anchor is torn, the shoulder can keep slipping out. Bankart repair is for people with repeated dislocations or a strong sense of the shoulder giving way.
What is tried before surgery?
After a first dislocation, care often starts with physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and activity changes.
Surgery becomes the right conversation when dislocations keep happening despite this, because each dislocation can add damage.
How does Bankart repair work?
The surgeon reattaches the torn labrum and tightens the front of the shoulder using arthroscopy, a small camera through tiny incisions, restoring the socket rim so the ball stays in place.
If there is significant bone loss, a different bone-based procedure may be recommended instead, which is decided from imaging.
What is recovery like?
The shoulder is protected in a sling early, then motion and strength are rebuilt over months of physical therapy.
Return to contact sport is commonly reported over several months and depends on the shoulder and your progress, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises.
Read the full guide to preparing for surgery →
Your own recovery instructions come from the office and are specific to you. This page describes the general course, not a plan to follow.
Who performs bankart repair (stabilization) in New York?
Kevin Plancher is a board certified orthopedic surgeon who performs bankart repair (stabilization) in New York, NY. Fellowship trained at The Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, Vail, CO – Shoulder and Knee Reconstruction & Sports Medicine, The Indiana Hand Center, Indianapolis, IN – Hand & Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Plancher sees patients at the practice in New York; appointments can be requested through this site.
What do patients ask most?
Will my shoulder dislocate again after surgery?+
How long is recovery?+
Is it arthroscopic?+
How do payments work?
Contact the office to confirm insurance participation.
Fellowship trained at The Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, Vail, CO – Shoulder and Knee Reconstruction & Sports Medicine, The Indiana Hand Center, Indianapolis, IN – Hand & Microvascular Surgery. Sees patients in New York.
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